DoorDash US fee and driver policy changes

In late July 2026 DoorDash announced a redesign of its consumer fee structure for deliveries across most U.S. markets. The new model fixes the delivery fee per merchant and calculates the service fee based on distance, order size and a possible long‑distance surcharge, with in‑app explanations and a “Farther Away” label for higher‑cost restaurants. The rollout excludes several major cities and regions, which will adopt the system later.

Two days later the company clarified its treatment of couriers, confirming that dashers remain independent contractors receiving 1099‑NEC forms and responsible for their own payroll taxes. DoorDash also explained periodic pauses on onboarding new dashers in certain markets, citing supply‑and‑demand factors such as market saturation, seasonal order fluctuations and broader economic conditions. These pauses aim to protect existing dasher earnings and maintain delivery speed.

Together, the announcements illustrate DoorDash’s broader effort to adjust its pricing and labor practices in response to operational demands and regulatory considerations.