Walmart's Spark Driver app has quietly become one of the most popular delivery gigs in America. While DoorDash and Instacart grab the headlines, Spark has expanded to over 3,600 Walmart locations across all 50 states and now competes directly for drivers who want flexible delivery work. What makes Spark different is the sheer volume of orders — Walmart is the largest retailer in the US with over 4,700 stores, meaning there is almost always work available. In 2026, Spark drivers report earning $15 to $28 per hour depending on their market, order types, and how strategically they work.
But driving for Spark, like any delivery gig, comes with expenses. Gas, vehicle maintenance, and self-employment taxes eat into your earnings. That is why many Spark drivers supplement their income with zero-cost earning apps. I am Beezy lets you earn $5 to $15 per day viewing content on your phone during the wait between Spark orders — no gas, no driving, just extra cash added to your daily total. Here is everything you need to know about driving for Spark in 2026.
What Is Spark and How Does It Work?
Walmart's answer to Instacart and DoorDash
Spark is Walmart's independent delivery driver platform. Instead of using third-party services for last-mile delivery, Walmart built its own gig driver network. As a Spark driver, you pick up orders from your local Walmart store and deliver them to customers' homes. Orders include grocery deliveries, general merchandise, and curbside pickup transfers. You are an independent contractor — not a Walmart employee — so you set your own schedule and choose which orders to accept.
The three types of Spark orders
Spark offers three order types, each with different pay structures. Curbside orders are the simplest: a Walmart associate loads pre-packed bags into your car and you deliver them. Shop and deliver orders require you to walk through the store, pick items, and then deliver. Dotcom orders involve larger or heavier items like electronics or household goods. Pay varies by order type, distance, and customer tips.
Spark Driver Pay Breakdown for 2026
How much do Spark drivers actually earn?
Spark uses a dynamic pricing model similar to other delivery apps. Base pay depends on order size, distance, and complexity. Tips are added on top by the customer. Here is what real Spark drivers are earning across different US markets in 2026.
| Order Type | Base Pay | Average Tip | Total per Order | Time per Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curbside delivery | $7 - $15 | $3 - $10 | $10 - $25 | 20 - 35 min |
| Shop and deliver | $10 - $22 | $5 - $15 | $15 - $37 | 40 - 70 min |
| Dotcom delivery | $8 - $18 | $2 - $8 | $10 - $26 | 25 - 45 min |
| Batched orders (2+) | $15 - $30 | $6 - $20 | $21 - $50 | 45 - 75 min |
The highest-earning Spark drivers focus on batched orders and shop-and-deliver trips because the pay-per-hour ratio is strongest. A batched order of two deliveries going in the same direction can pay $35 to $50 for under an hour of work, which translates to $35 to $50 per hour before expenses.
Spark vs DoorDash vs Instacart: the pay comparison
Spark holds up well against its competitors. DoorDash base pay starts lower ($2.50 per delivery) but volume is higher in some markets. Instacart tips tend to be more generous for large grocery orders. Spark's advantage is consistency — Walmart has steady order volume seven days a week, while DoorDash and Instacart fluctuate more with meal times and seasonal demand. Many drivers run Spark alongside DoorDash to maximize their earnings per hour. Between orders on any platform, I am Beezy fills the gaps — active users add $150 to $300 per month just from content viewing during idle time.
How to Become a Spark Delivery Driver
Requirements and signup process
Spark driver requirements are similar to other delivery platforms. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid US driver's license, pass a background check, and have a vehicle that is in good working condition. You also need a smartphone with the Spark Driver app installed and a bank account for direct deposit. The signup process takes 5 to 10 minutes online, and the background check typically clears within 3 to 7 business days.
The approval timeline and what to expect
After you apply, Spark may place you on a waitlist depending on driver demand in your market. Some areas approve instantly while others have a 2 to 4 week wait. During this waiting period, you can start earning immediately with I am Beezy — no waitlist, no background check, and you start earning the same day you sign up. Once your Spark application clears, you will receive an email notification and can begin accepting deliveries right away.
Tips to get approved faster
Apply during periods of high demand — holiday seasons, back to school, and summer months — when Walmart is actively recruiting drivers. Complete your application fully with accurate information, as incomplete applications get delayed. If your local Walmart market has a waitlist, check back weekly in the app, as spots open regularly when inactive drivers are removed from the platform.
Maximizing Your Spark Driver Earnings
Cherry-pick high-value orders
Not every Spark order is worth your time. Use the same $2 per mile rule that successful DoorDash and Instacart drivers follow. If an order pays $12 for a 10-mile round trip, that is $1.20 per mile — below the threshold for profitable delivery work. Hold out for orders that pay $2 or more per mile, especially batched orders going in the same direction.
Work the highest-demand time slots
Spark order volume peaks between 8 AM and 12 PM (morning grocery deliveries) and again from 4 PM to 7 PM (after-work pickups). Saturday and Sunday mornings are the busiest windows of the week. Position yourself near your local Walmart 10 to 15 minutes before peak periods to catch the first wave of orders.
Stack Spark with other apps and Beezy
Run Spark alongside DoorDash or Uber Eats. When Spark is slow, accept a DoorDash order. When both apps are quiet, open I am Beezy and view content. This three-layer approach ensures you are earning money every single minute of your shift, whether you are driving, parked, or just waiting. Sign up for I am Beezy now and start filling your downtime with dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spark delivery worth it in 2026?
Yes, for most drivers. Spark pays $15 to $28 per hour before expenses in most markets, which is competitive with DoorDash and Instacart. The steady order volume from Walmart's massive customer base means less idle time compared to restaurant-only delivery apps.
Does Spark pay more than DoorDash?
It depends on your market. In suburban areas with fewer restaurants but a Walmart nearby, Spark often pays more per hour because competition for orders is lower. In dense urban areas, DoorDash may edge ahead due to higher tip percentages on restaurant orders. Many drivers run both apps for maximum earnings.
How often does Spark pay drivers?
Spark pays weekly via direct deposit. Earnings from Monday through Sunday are deposited the following Tuesday. There is currently no instant cashout option like DoorDash's DasherDirect card, so plan your budget accordingly.
Can you drive for Spark with a used or older car?
Yes. Spark does not have strict vehicle age requirements like Uber. Your car needs to be in safe, reliable condition and have enough trunk space for grocery bags. Trucks, SUVs, and sedans all work. A vehicle with good gas mileage will maximize your net earnings.
Conclusion
Spark delivery driving is a solid gig economy option in 2026, especially if you live near a Walmart. The steady order volume, competitive pay, and simple requirements make it accessible to almost anyone with a car and a clean driving record. To maximize your total income, stack Spark with another delivery app and use I am Beezy during your downtime. Create your free Beezy account today and make sure every minute of your work day puts money in your pocket.
