How Much to Tip a Valet
$2–5 per retrieval
Tip the valet $2–5 when they bring your car back. Tip more at upscale venues, in bad weather, or if they help load luggage. Tipping at drop-off is optional.
Tip$5.00
Within the usual $2–$5 per retrieval.
How much to tip, situation by situation
| Situation | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Standard car retrieval | $2–5 |
| Upscale hotel or restaurant | $5–10 |
| Rain, snow or loading bags | +$2–5 |
| Hotel valet, multi-day stay | Tip each time you get the car |
Worth knowing
- Keep small bills handy; valet stands often can't take card tips.
Working it out by hand? See how to calculate a tip. Travelling? Customs differ abroad: tipping by country.
Questions people ask
Do you tip valet when you drop off or pick up?
At pick-up is standard. Some add a couple of dollars at drop-off for special care.
Do you tip valet if parking is free?
Yes. Complimentary valet still relies on tips, so $2–5 when the car comes back is the norm.
Do I tip the hotel valet every time?
Yes, tip each time your car is brought to you. Nothing is needed when you hand over the keys, though a couple of dollars is a nice extra.
Is the valet fee a tip?
No. The fee goes to the parking operator; the tip is separate.