Short answer: Food delivery drivers in the US are usually tipped 15 to 20% of the order, with $3 to $5 as a minimum. With no cash on you, the options are: tip in the app when you order, add it on the card slip, scan the driver's code, or tip parcel and furniture drivers separately.
How much to tip a delivery driver
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| $25 order | $4 to $5 |
| $80 family order | $12 to $16 |
| Rain, snow, stairs or a long distance | Add $2 to $5 |
| Grocery delivery with heavy items | 15 to 20% |
These are customary amounts in the United States, in US dollars. They are a guide, not a rule: tip more for exceptional service.
Do you have to tip a delivery driver?
In the US, effectively yes. On the large apps, base pay per delivery is low and drivers can see the tip before accepting, so an order with no tip may wait a long time for someone to take it.
Can you tip a delivery driver by card?
Yes, in the app or on the restaurant's card slip. Check whether a "delivery fee" or "service fee" is charged: neither is a tip, and neither goes to the driver.
4 ways to tip a delivery driver without cash
- Tip in the app when you order. You can usually raise it afterwards as well.
- Add it on the card slip. For a restaurant's own drivers, ask them to add a tip when you pay by phone.
- Scan the driver's code. Some couriers carry a QR code on their bag or lanyard, which helps when the order was placed by someone else.
- Tip parcel and furniture drivers separately. They are not in an app: a payment handle or a code is the only cashless route.
What a tip QR code does
If a delivery driver shows you a QR code, point your phone camera at it. A payment page opens in your browser, you choose an amount, and you pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. You do not install anything or create an account, and it works with cards from other countries.
If you cannot tip on the day
In an app, add the tip from the order screen afterwards. For a driver who is not in an app, ask the dispatcher or the shop to pass on a card tip.
Outside the United States
In the UK, Australia and Europe a delivery tip is optional. A pound, a dollar or a euro or two in the app is typical.
Do you work as a delivery driver?
App tips can be changed after delivery, and they tell you nothing about who tipped. Orders placed by offices, hotels and parents for their children arrive at a door where the person in front of you has no way to tip.
See how delivery drivers take card tips with a QR code: where to put it, what to write on the sign and how to mention it.
Common questions
How much should I tip a delivery driver?
Food delivery drivers in the US are usually tipped 15 to 20% of the order, with $3 to $5 as a minimum.
Do I have to tip a delivery driver?
In the US, effectively yes. On the large apps, base pay per delivery is low and drivers can see the tip before accepting, so an order with no tip may wait a long time for someone to take it.
Can I tip a delivery driver with a card or Apple Pay?
Yes, in the app or on the restaurant's card slip. Check whether a "delivery fee" or "service fee" is charged: neither is a tip, and neither goes to the driver.
What if I have no cash to tip a delivery driver?
In an app, add the tip from the order screen afterwards. For a driver who is not in an app, ask the dispatcher or the shop to pass on a card tip.