Why Spark Deactivates Drivers: Background Checks and Beyond

Spark drivers often find their accounts deactivated without prior notice or a clear explanation for the decision. In most cases, the only option is to appeal directly through Spark Support. 

However, if your account was deactivated due to inaccuracies in your background check, it’s crucial to work with an FCRA attorney to correct your background report and restore your account.

Common reasons for deactivation:

• Failed Background Check
• Late or Missed Deliveries, Cancellations
• Customer Complaints
• System Errors or Miscommunication

Spark Drive Account Deactivated Due to a Background Check

The purpose of a background check is to evaluate whether a driver’s criminal and traffic history has any potential risks to passenger safety. Spark’s background checks typically include the following details:

• Criminal History: Includes records of misconduct, felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/DWI offenses, and other crimes at both the federal and county levels.
• Driving Record: Covers accidents, traffic violations, and any history of driver’s license suspension.
• Identity Verification: Confirms the validity of a driver’s ID and Social Security number.

To conduct these checks, Spark relies on background check agencies like Checkr, and occasionally Sterling or First Advantage.

Important to know – Instead of directly verifying criminal records with the courts, background check agencies gather information from commercial databases. These databases are often unreliable, increasing the likelihood of inaccurate reports and unjust deactivations.

Consumer Attorneys – Spark Background Check Correction

Most Common Issues with Spark Background Checks

Inaccurate Or Outdated Information on a Background Report

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), background check agencies conducting checks for Spark drivers are legally required to follow reasonable procedures to ensure accuracy. This includes verifying that the driver’s background report reflects up-to-date records from the courts and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

However, inaccuracies are common. Background checks often show resolved cases as pending because agencies fail to keep pace with court updates. Additionally, problems with matching algorithms frequently arise. These agencies may rely on partial information—such as matching records by name and date of birth—without fully verifying the driver’s personal details. As a result, even drivers with spotless records can face deactivation due to errors caused by records that belong to someone else with a similar name.

Resolution:

If your Spark account was deactivated due to an inaccurate background check, Consumer Attorneys can help you correct your report with no out-of-pocket fees and get you monetary compensation for the loss of income and emotional distress.

Consumer Attorneys – Spark Background Check Correction

To review your issue, Consumer Attorneys will need a copy of your background report, which usually comes in the email or can be obtained at Checkr - Candidate Portal

How Long Does Spark Driver Background Checks Take?

A background check for Spark drivers usually takes between 1 to 7 business days to complete. However, processing can be delayed if additional verification is required. Delays can also occur if a driver enters incorrect personal information or uploads unclear photos of their documents.

Resolution:

If the background check remains pending for an extended period, Spark may cancel it altogether. In such cases, you should contact Spark Support to inquire about the issue and request a new background check.

Spark Customer Service – Help Desk

Deactivated Due to Late or Missed Deliveries, Cancellations

Beyond Background Checks, there are many other reasons why your Spark Driver Account may get deactivated usually, they are related to the Spark Drive Terms of Service.

Failure to Complete Orders is one of the most common reasons for deactivation. This includes not only failing to deliver orders but also making late deliveries, leaving orders at incorrect locations, or failing to accept orders while using the Spark app. In some cases, these issues may result in a temporary deactivation, but if the driver fails to maintain a high acceptance and delivery rate, the account may be permanently deactivated.

Resolution:

If you believe that your Spark account has been deactivated due to a mistake or a technical error, please contact Spark Drive Support to Appeal Your Deactivation with Spark Directly.

Deactivated Due to a False Complaint from a Customer

Spark drivers are often deactivated due to false complaints from customers. Spark Drive closely monitors driver ratings and automatically deactivates accounts when the rating falls below a certain threshold. In some cases, complaints may result in immediate deactivation, particularly if the customer reports rude or unacceptable behavior from the driver.

Unfortunately, when disputes arise between drivers and customers, Spark typically sides with the customer. Since drivers are independent contractors, Spark is not legally responsible for the fairness of the deactivation decision.

Resolution:

Appealing a deactivation caused by a customer complaint can be very challenging. However, if you were falsely accused of not delivering a package or exhibiting rude behavior, it’s important to try appealing Spark's decision by reaching out to their Support Team.

Appealing a deactivation - Spark Drive HelpDesk

System Errors or Miscommunication

Less common, but still possible, are technical errors that lead to unreasonable Spark account deactivations. For instance, if the GPS malfunctions or there are internet connection issues, Spark’s system may mistakenly flag your account for fraudulent activity, resulting in an automatic deactivation.

Resolution:

There are various system glitches or miscommunications that can lead to a Spark account deactivation. In these cases, drivers often have the option to appeal and have their accounts reinstated.

Appealing a deactivation - Spark Drive HelpDesk