How Much to Tip A Valet?
Updated 2026-05-23 · 2026 U.S. tipping standard
Tip the valet $2–$5 in cash when your car is returned to you, on top of any parking fee. At upscale hotels, valet at high-end restaurants, or for special handling (large vehicle, sports car, last-minute retrieval), tip $5–$10. Tipping on drop-off is optional — most people only tip when the car is returned.
Tip calculator
U.S. norm is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal.
Advanced — tip on pre-tax amount
- Tip
- $0.00
- Bill (tipped on)
- $0.00
- Each person
- $0.00
- Each tip share
- $0.00
Enter a bill amount above to calculate.
What's normal for valet?
- Standard restaurant valet: $2–$5 on pickup.
- Upscale hotel or high-end restaurant: $5–$10 on pickup.
- Hotel valet for a multi-day stay: tip each time the car is brought up, or tip a lump sum at the end ($5/day is reasonable).
- Drop-off tip is optional — most U.S. valets do not expect it.
When to tip more
- Bad weather, very late at night, or a long wait wasn't the valet's fault.
- Large or specialty vehicle requires careful handling.
- You ask the valet to retrieve forgotten items or move the car early.
When a smaller tip is reasonable
- Very long unexplained wait or visible damage to the car.
Worked example
For valet, the U.S. norm is a flat $2–$5 per car returned, not a percentage. Tip in cash directly to the person who did the work. Use the calculator above for any percentage-based portion of the bill (e.g. taxis with a metered fare).
Valet tipping FAQ
Should I tip on drop-off too?
Most U.S. valet patrons only tip on pickup. A drop-off tip is a nice gesture but not expected.
Do I tip if there is a parking fee?
Yes. The parking fee goes to the venue or operator, not the valet.
Is $2 enough at a casual restaurant?
Yes. $2 is the floor; $5 is generous at a casual venue.
Tip in cash or app?
Cash. Carry small bills if you know you'll be valeting.