In today’s fast-paced world, food delivery services like DoorDash have become essential. Whether you’re too busy to cook or craving a favorite dish from the comfort of your couch, a quick tap on your smartphone can bring a meal to your doorstep. But let’s be honest—those delivery fees, service charges, and tips can add up fast. What if you could enjoy all the convenience of DoorDash without spending a single dollar? Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. With the right strategies, you can legally pay $0 on DoorDash and still enjoy hot, delicious meals.
This comprehensive guide dives into the legitimate ways you can order from DoorDash for free. We’ll explore promo codes, rewards programs, subscription benefits, and smart shopping strategies. Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget or just want to save where you can, these proven techniques will transform how you use the app.
Understanding How DoorDash Works
Before jumping into the “how,” it’s important to understand the pricing model DoorDash uses. This helps identify where you can save and ultimately reach $0 out-of-pocket expense.
A typical DoorDash order includes several cost components:
- Food price: Set by the restaurant.
- Delivery fee: Based on distance, demand, and time of day.
- Service fee: Pays for DoorDash’s platform.
- Tip: Goes directly to the driver.
- Taxes and surcharges: Mandatory by law.
The goal of paying $0 isn’t just about avoiding the delivery fee—it’s about covering all these costs without dipping into your wallet. Fortunately, several tools and services can help offset each of these.
Method 1: Use DoorDash Promo Codes
Promo codes are one of the most direct ways to pay $0 on your order. DoorDash frequently releases limited-time offers for new and existing users.
Finding Legitimate Promo Codes
DoorDash promo codes are often available through:
- Official DoorDash referral programs
- Email newsletters from DoorDash
- Social media campaigns
- Partnership deals (e.g., with credit cards or phone carriers)
For example, a common offer is “$0 Delivery Fee + $20 Off First Orders” for new users. While the discount may not cover the full cost of food, stacking multiple offers can get you close to zero.
How to Apply Promo Codes
Applying a promo code is simple:
- Open the DoorDash app and add items to your cart.
- At checkout, look for the “Promo” or “Gift Card” section.
- Enter the valid code and watch the price drop.
Always double-check the expiry date and eligibility (e.g., minimum order amount or participating restaurants).
Referral Bonuses: Get $0 Deliveries for You and a Friend
DoorDash’s referral program is one of the most effective ways to secure free deliveries. When you refer someone using your personal link, you both get credits—often $15–$25 off your next order. Using referral credits wisely lets you pay $0 for several meals.
Tip: Share your referral code on social platforms (responsibly) or group chats to maximize returns. Some users have earned hundreds of dollars in credits just by referring friends.
Method 2: Subscribe to DoorDash+ (Formerly DashPass)
One of the best long-term strategies for free DoorDash deliveries is DoorDash+, the subscription service similar to Amazon Prime.
What Is DoorDash+?
For a monthly fee (usually $9.99, though often discounted), DoorDash+ gives subscribers:
- Free delivery on eligible orders over $12
- 5% cash back on pickup orders
- Exclusive member promos
At first glance, it’s a paid service. But if you order even 2–3 times a month, the free delivery savings usually exceed the subscription cost. Plus, the 5% cash back adds up over time.
How to Get DoorDash+ for Free
Yes, you can get DoorDash+ at $0 cost—with these hacks:
Student Discount: Half Off Forever
DoorDash offers a 50% discount on DoorDash+ for students verified through SheerID. That brings the price down to $4.99/month. But the real win? Promotional offers often include 1–6 months of free DoorDash+.
For example, many credit card companies (like Chase or Citi) offer 6 months free DoorDash+ when you sign up for certain cards. Combine that with the student discount, and you can ride free for half a year or more.
Partner Promotions
Carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon often bundle DoorDash+ in their premium plans. T-Mobile’s “Magenta MAX” plan includes 4 free DoorDash deliveries per month. Over a year, that’s 48 free delivery orders—potentially saving over $200.
Check with your mobile provider to see if you qualify.
Method 3: Earn DoorDash via Rewards and Cashback Apps
Another brilliant way to pay $0 is by using apps that give you cashback, gift cards, or points redeemable for DoorDash credits.
Use Credit Card Rewards
Many credit cards offer rewards in dining or delivery categories. For instance:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: 3x points on dining and travel. You can transfer points to DoorDash through partners like Instacart or gift cards.
- Amazon Prime Rewards Visa: 5% back at restaurants (can buy DoorDash gift cards with Amazon credit).
- Citi Double Cash: 2% cash back on all purchases—redeemable anywhere, including DoorDash.
While you don’t technically avoid spending, you’re reimbursing yourself with rewards, making the net cost $0.
Leverage Cashback Apps
Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fetch Rewards partner with DoorDash to give you money back.
- Rakuten: Offers up to 10% cash back at DoorDash (varies by restaurant).
- Fetch Rewards: Scan receipts after your DoorDash order to earn points redeemable for gift cards.
- Ibotta: Occasionally runs promotions for $5 back on first DashPass subscription.
Even if the cashback doesn’t cover the full order, every dollar back brings you closer to $0.
Gift Cards: Free Money for DoorDash
Gift cards are the golden ticket. You can obtain DoorDash gift cards for $0 using reward programs.
For example:
– Swagbucks lets you earn points by completing surveys, then redeem them for DoorDash gift cards.
– PayPal Honey offers gift card rewards through its browser extension.
– Some apps give $10 DoorDash cards just for signing up or hitting milestones.
Once you have a gift card, use it in the promo section at checkout. Voilà—your order is paid for with free money.
Method 4: Shop Smart: Combine Offers for Maximum Savings
To truly pay $0, you need to layer strategies. A single discount won’t always cover everything, but combining them can.
Stacking Discounts: The Power Combo
Here’s how smart shoppers get free food:
- Have a **$20 off promo code** from a referral.
- Use a **$10 DoorDash gift card** earned from a rewards app.
- Order from a **DashPass-eligible restaurant**, eliminating delivery fees.
Result? A $35 meal might cost you $0 out of pocket.
Note: DoorDash limits stacking promotions, but referral credits, gift cards, and DashPass benefits often work together seamlessly.
Time Your Orders Wisely
Delivery fees fluctuate. Ordering during off-peak hours (e.g., 2–4 PM) often reduces or eliminates delivery fees. Some restaurants even offer “Free Delivery Days” in the app.
Also, keep an eye out for “Zero Fees Days,” where DoorDash runs promotions with no delivery or service fees on select orders.
Choose the Right Restaurants
Not all restaurants on DoorDash are created equal. Some:
– Offer in-app discounts (“$10 Off Orders Over $25”).
– Are part of DashPass eligibility, meaning free delivery.
– Have lower service fees.
Filter your search to “Free Delivery” options and sort by discount availability to maximize savings.
Method 5: Use DashPass “Free Delivery” to Offset Costs
Even if you don’t subscribe to DoorDash+, you can still benefit from free delivery deals:
DashPass Trial Periods
DoorDash frequently offers 30–60-day free trials of DashPass. During this time, every eligible order has:
- Free delivery on orders over $12
- Reduced service fees
- Access to exclusive deals
Use this trial period to schedule weekly meals—effectively paying $0 for delivery for a month or two.
Eligibility for Free Delivery Promotions
DoorDash often runs app-wide promotions. For example:
– “Free Delivery All Weekend Long” (January 2024)
– “No Delivery Fees on Taco Tuesday” (limited to specific chains)
Enable notifications in the app so you don’t miss these limited-time opportunities.
Method 6: Earn With DashPass and Get Paid Orders
This may sound counterintuitive, but you can get DoorDash to pay you to use their service.
Refer and Earn: The Ultimate $0 Loop
Here’s a clever loop many users exploit:
- Use your referral code to get a friend signed up.
- They get $25 off, you get $25 in credit.
- Your friend orders, and DoorDash pays their $25 discount.
- You now have $25 in free DoorDash money.
- Spend it on your next meal—paying $0.
Repeat with more friends, and you essentially create a self-sustaining free delivery cycle.
Corporate and Campus Partnerships
Some universities and companies partner with DoorDash to give students or employees free credits. For example:
- College freshmen might get a “Welcome to Campus” promo with $30 in free delivery.
- Employers offer wellness stipends redeemable for DoorDash.
Check with your school, HR department, or student services for hidden DoorDash deals.
Method 7: Use a DoorDash Gift Card From a Contest or Giveaway
There’s a thriving community of people giving away DoorDash gift cards.
Enter Giveaways
Social media influencers, food bloggers, and even DoorDash itself run contests where you can win:
- $50 DoorDash gift cards
- Free meals for a month
- Merchandise bundles that include credits
Follow DoorDash on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Engage with posts asking you to tag friends or share stories—simple actions that could score you a $0 meal.
Join Online Communities
Reddit forums like r/FreeFood and r/Doordash often feature threads where users share unused gift cards or promo codes. While being cautious of scams, many genuine giveaways occur in these spaces.
Is Paying $0 on DoorDash Ethical?
A common question: Is it ethical to use all these tricks to pay nothing?
The simple answer is yes—when using legitimate, publicly offered promotions. DoorDash designs these offers to attract new users, retain existing ones, and increase order frequency. You’re not hacking the system—you’re playing it smart.
However, avoid:
– Sharing promo codes meant for individual use
– Creating fake accounts to exploit first-time user offers
– Abusing the referral system with bots
DoorDash expects frugal users. Just make sure you’re on the right side of the terms of service.
When You Shouldn’t Try to Pay $0
While saving money is great, there are situations where aiming for $0 isn’t practical or fair:
High-Demand Times
During snowstorms, holidays, or major events, delivery demand spikes. Delivery fees rise, and drivers are working hard. Using excessive discounts during these times reduces driver earnings and may result in canceled deliveries.
Small Restaurants
Some small or local eateries have higher food prices and lower margins. They may not benefit from your order if all discounts are passed onto them. Support local businesses by occasionally paying full price.
Tipping Should Never Be $0
Avoid using promotions to skip tipping. Delivery drivers rely on tips to make a living wage. Even if your meal is free, tip at least $5 or 15–20% of the food cost. Ethical savings don’t come at the driver’s expense.
Real-World Example: How One User Paid $0 for 30 Days
Sarah, a college student in Austin, used these strategies to eat out every other day with zero personal spending:
- Month began with a 6-month free DoorDash+ trial via her Chase student card.
- Used referral credits ($25 each) from three friends who signed up.
- Earned a $10 DoorDash gift card through Swagbucks after completing surveys.
- Only ordered during “Free Delivery Days” and chose DashPass-eligible restaurants.
- Tipped fairly using saved pocket money.
Total spent: $0. Total meals: 14. Total saved: ~$175.
Pro Tips for Maximizing $0 Orders
To become a DoorDash savings expert, keep these advanced tips in mind:
Monitor Expiry Dates
Promo codes and credits expire. Set reminders to use them before they vanish. Most credits last 30–60 days.
Spend Credits Strategically
Save big credits for pricier meals (like sushi or steak) to maximize value. Don’t waste a $25 credit on a $12 burrito.
Use Budgeting Apps
Track your DoorDash spending (and savings) with apps like Mint or YNAB. You’ll see how much you’ve avoided spending over time—motivation to keep going.
Try DoorDash Merchants Without Delivery Fees
Some convenience stores or fast-food chains waive delivery fees regularly. Look for the “$0 Delivery” filter in the app.
Conclusion: Paying $0 on DoorDash Is Possible and Practical
Paying $0 on DoorDash isn’t a fantasy—it’s a strategy game, and you’re the player. With promo codes, subscription tricks, cashback apps, referral programs, and smart ordering habits, you can enjoy hundreds of dollars in free food without breaking a sweat.
The key is consistency and awareness. Stay on top of promotions, verify every discount, and always tip fairly. Over time, you’ll build a system that makes DoorDash not just convenient—but completely cost-free.
Don’t settle for high delivery fees and full-price meals. Use this guide to unlock the full potential of DoorDash—and start eating for free today. Your wallet (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Remember: the best savings don’t come from cutting corners, but from using the system as it was designed—smartly and ethically. Now go order that pizza. On the house.
How can I get free deliveries on DoorDash using promotions and sign-up bonuses?
DoorDash frequently offers promotional deals and sign-up incentives that allow new users to enjoy free delivery. When you download the DoorDash app or visit their website for the first time, you may be eligible for a welcome offer, such as “$0 delivery fee on your first 3 orders.” These promotions are often tied to your email or device and require you to complete your first order within a specified time frame to activate the benefit. In some regions, existing users may also receive targeted promotions for reduced or waived delivery fees as part of user retention campaigns.
To maximize these opportunities, ensure you are signing up with a fresh email address and not using a device that’s previously been linked to a DoorDash account, as the system may detect past activity and disqualify you from new-user bonuses. Additionally, occasionally DoorDash partners with outside companies—for example, mobile carriers or credit card providers—to offer free delivery perks through co-branded promotions. Keep an eye on DoorDash’s social media channels and newsletters for announcements of limited-time deals that provide $0 delivery options for eligible users.
Can joining DashPass help me avoid paying delivery fees?
Yes, joining DashPass, DoorDash’s subscription service, can help you eliminate delivery fees on eligible orders. For a monthly fee—typically around $9.99—you gain access to $0 delivery on orders over $12 from participating merchants. DashPass also includes reduced service fees on orders from DashMart, DoorDash’s online convenience store. This makes DashPass a cost-effective option if you frequently order food delivery, as just two or three orders per month could offset the subscription cost through saved delivery fees.
To get the most value from DashPass, focus on ordering from restaurants and stores where the $0 delivery benefit applies. Not all merchants are included in the DashPass program, so always check the app for the “$0 delivery” indicator before placing your order. New users are often offered a free trial of DashPass (such as 30 days free), allowing you to enjoy multiple free deliveries before committing to the paid subscription. Be sure to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t plan to continue, or consider temporarily reactivating it during periods of heavy ordering to save.
Are there ways to earn free DoorDash deliveries through referral programs?
DoorDash’s referral program can be a smart way to receive free deliveries without spending money. When you refer a friend using your unique referral link and they make their first eligible order, both you and your friend typically receive credit—often in the form of $0 delivery fee coupons or DashCash. These referral rewards can be stacked across multiple successful referrals, allowing you to build up a stockpile of free delivery options without having to make qualifying purchases yourself.
To take full advantage, encourage friends and family who haven’t used DoorDash before to sign up using your referral code. It’s most effective when targeting people who are likely to place an order soon after joining. You can share your link via email, text, or social media. Some users strategically time their referrals around holidays or special events when others are more likely to order delivery, increasing the success rate. Just ensure that both parties follow DoorDash’s terms, such as meeting minimum order requirements, to activate the $0 delivery offers.
Do credit card rewards offer a way to get free DoorDash deliveries?
Many credit cards offer rewards programs that include cash back or statement credits on food delivery spending, including DoorDash. For example, certain cards provide 3–5% cash back on dining or delivery app purchases, which can effectively cover the cost of delivery fees and service charges when redeemed. Over time, accumulated rewards can fund multiple delivery-free orders or be used to reimburse past expenses, making your deliveries feel free.
To utilize this strategy, choose a credit card that specifically rewards spending in the food delivery category and use it exclusively for your DoorDash orders. Some cards even partner directly with DoorDash, offering exclusive promotions such as bonus points or $0 delivery on your birthday. Always pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges that could negate your savings. By aligning your spending with rewards, you can dramatically reduce or eliminate your net cost for each delivery.
How do DashMart purchases with DashPass help me avoid delivery costs?
When you’re a DashPass member, you can enjoy reduced or waived delivery fees on DashMart deliveries, DoorDash’s online grocery and convenience store. DashMart orders placed with DashPass typically include $0 delivery fees on orders over a small minimum—often just $15. This can be especially valuable for delivering household essentials without incurring extra delivery charges, making it an effective avenue to receive free deliveries beyond restaurant meals.
Additionally, DashMart frequently runs limited-time deals, such as free delivery on specific items or discounts when bundled with DashPass. These savings compound when you pair them with DashCash or promotional codes. Since DashMart delivery times are often faster and fees lower than standard restaurant deliveries, smart users leverage this service to maximize their DoorDash value. Just ensure your address is within DashMart delivery range, which may be more limited than standard restaurant delivery zones.
Can using promotional codes during holidays lead to $0 delivery?
DoorDash regularly releases time-limited promotional codes during holidays, major events, or themed campaigns (like Super Bowl Sunday or National Pizza Day) that offer $0 delivery fees. These codes are often distributed through email newsletters, social media contests, or partnerships with brands. Subscribers who stay updated on DoorDash’s promotions have a better chance of accessing these limited-availability deals and stacking them for free delivery on multiple orders.
To take advantage, always check your email inbox and the “Promotions” section of the DoorDash app before placing an order. Some codes are automatically applied when your order meets conditions like a minimum subtotal. DoorDash also sometimes provides promo codes in response to customer service interactions, such as addressing delivery issues. While not every user will qualify, staying attentive to holiday-themed offers significantly increases the likelihood of securing free delivery with little to no effort.
Is it possible to get free DoorDash deliveries through workplace or student benefits?
Yes, some employers, universities, and student organizations partner with DoorDash to offer free or subsidized delivery benefits. For example, companies may provide DashPass subscriptions as an employee perk, while colleges might offer free delivery credits during exams or welcome weeks. These institutional partnerships are designed to support convenience and wellness, allowing eligible individuals to enjoy $0 delivery without paying out of pocket.
To access these benefits, check if your employer, school, or organization participates in DoorDash’s enterprise programs like DoorDash for Work or DoorDash for Campus. You may need to register using a valid .edu email or through a company portal. Occasionally, promo codes are distributed during orientation sessions, corporate events, or wellness days. Even if your institution doesn’t currently offer such perks, advocating for them could lead to future access, making this a valuable long-term strategy for consistent free deliveries.