Valet Tips

Valet parking is a popular service at fine hotels, restaurants, and events. If you’re wondering whether you should tip and how much to leave, you’re not alone. There are some general rules for tipping valet attendants, but circumstances vary. This guide lays out what you need to know.

Quick Facts: Valet Parking

Valet parking is where you hand your keys to a guy, and he parks your car for you. When you are ready to go, you get it back. It’s what goes on in hotels, fine dining restaurants, and event venues. Some places charge a flat rate. Others give it away free to customers/guests. In either case, the tip is in addition to any service charge.

The valet guys don't know if you're coming back or how long you're gonna be. They park scores of cars a day in rain, snow, and sunshine. The work engages us. They’re managing your car and controlling the flow of traffic. That’s why the culture includes tipping.

Tipping Valet Attendants: How Much Should You Tip?

You tip when the attendant returns your car to you. That’s the moment that counts.

• Most people give a little for basic service.
• If they were friendly or quick, tip them a little more.
• Move up if you’re quick on your feet, or have a good memory, or can handle a difficult situation.
• If there’s an issue, you can give less or skip it.
• Bad weather, heavy traffic, or late night usually means tipping more.

When You Should Tip Valet Staff

You'll want to tip when certain conditions apply.

• When they retrieve your car after your meal or stay.
• When they successfully park your car without problems.
• When you see them working efficiently despite busy conditions.
• When they go the extra mile to help you.
• Even in bad weather, they are swift.

When Tipping May Vary

Not every situation calls for a standard tip.

• Free valet at a car dealership, tipping is optional but appreciated.
• Valet that comes with a resort fee, still tip separately.
• Damaged car or long wait, adjust your tip down if the service was poor.
• Valet at casual restaurants, still tip, just maybe less than fine dining.
• Overnight parking at a hotel, tip when you leave, not each night.



How Customers Usually Tip Valet Attendants

Most people hand over cash to the attendant when they get their car. You could say, for instance, “Keep the change”, or just hand over cash without commenting. It is the most common approach, because it is fast and personal.

Some people pre-tip when they drop off the car. This sometimes gets you faster service, though it's not required. Other people wait until pickup to see how things went, which lets you adjust based on actual service.

Credit card tipping at valet is less common than cash, but some places have those systems now. However, cash is still preferred by attendants because they get it immediately.