Everyone’s feeling the fuel-price pinch after the 2026 gas price increase, and to offer relief, DoorDash stepped in with a program to offset the expense, but just for its drivers.
In mid-March, DoorDash announced its Gas Reward Program to help drivers — also known as “Dashers” — recoup the expense of higher gas prices, since Dashers pay for their own fuel.
DoorDash has offered similar deals in the past. This time, the company will provide small weekly bonuses based on mileage, cash back on gas purchases, fuel discount programs, and temporary relief when gas prices spike.
Dashers can earn up to $15 per week based on miles driven, receive 10% back on gas purchases with the DasherDirect debit card, use additional fuel discounts, and access tools.
Gas prices are up partly because of the conflict between the U.S. and Iran under Trump, which has pushed oil prices higher over fears Iran could disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. When crude oil prices rise due to conflict or supply concerns, gasoline prices typically increase shortly afterward.
The war in Iran is not the only reason fuel is more expensive. Seasonal factors and refinery maintenance in the U.S. also reduce gasoline supply in the spring, which typically pushes prices higher ahead of summer travel.
Dashers respond
Response to DoorDash’s fuel relief program was mixed. One Dasher wrote online,
Funny, I’m out dashing around 12-14 hours a day I haven’t received anything including an email about it. In fact, I see worse and worse offers and higher gas. I’m in the Show Me State. Show me or stfu.”
via Don Giovanni,X
Still, others noted, “This is a step in the right direction for the drivers dealing with these high fuel costs,” and, “Doordash do really care about drivers unlike uber !!”
Trump admin: 2026 gas price increase ” a blip”
President Trump has publicly downplayed pump pain from rising gas prices tied to the conflict with Iran, shrugging off reporter questions with variants of “If they rise, they rise,” and framing the conflict as more important than short‑term cost increases.
To address costs, the administration has taken several policy actions: it temporarily waived the Jones Act — a century‑old shipping law — to expand fuel-transport options, and it is poised to waive summer gasoline-blend regulations to ease refinery costs. Federal officials also announced a 60‑day Jones Act waiver and plans to relax smog fuel rules to lower prices, according to Reuters.
Meanwhile, Vice President J.D. Vance said higher gas prices are “temporary” and would ease as the geopolitical situation calms. However, analysts note that unless the conflict abates and crucial supply channels reopen, prices could remain elevated for weeks to months, and possibly longer if market disruptions persist.
Published: Mar 24, 2026 12:13 pm