Pulling up to the curb, handing over the keys and walking straight inside is one of the small luxuries of a night out. Valet parking is common at restaurants, hotels, hospitals, event venues and busy shopping areas, especially where parking is tight. Knowing how it generally works helps you use it with confidence.
How a valet operation works
When you arrive, an attendant takes your keys and gives you a claim ticket, either paper or digital. The attendant drives your car to a nearby lot or garage, which may be on site or a short distance away. When you are ready to leave, you present your ticket, sometimes text a number or use an app to request the car, and the attendant brings it back to the curb.
Many valet services are run by professional parking companies hired by the business. Others are operated by the business itself. Policies on payment, tipping customs and liability are set by the operator.
Before you hand over the keys
- Remove valuables. Take wallets, laptops and electronics with you, or lock them in the trunk before arriving.
- Use a valet key if you have one. Some vehicles include a key or mode that limits access to the trunk or glove box.
- Note the car’s condition. A quick photo of the car, the odometer and any existing scratches gives you a record.
- Keep your claim ticket safe. Losing it can slow down getting your car back, and the operator may require identification.
- Read the posted terms. Valet stands usually display rates, hours and liability terms. Look for when the service closes.
Picking up your car
If the service allows it, request your car a few minutes before you plan to leave, since retrieval from an off-site garage can take time on busy nights. When the car arrives, look it over before driving away. If you notice new damage, raise it with the attendant on the spot, take photos and ask for the manager or the operator’s contact information. Reporting a problem right away is much easier than doing it days later.
Accessibility and special situations
Valet can be especially helpful for people with mobility challenges, at hospitals and in winter weather when walking from a distant lot is difficult. Some valet services may not be able to handle certain vehicles, such as those with hand controls, oversized vans or manual transmissions. Ask when you arrive if you have any special requirements.
Valet versus self-parking
Valet trades cost for convenience and time. Self-parking in a nearby garage or lot may be less expensive and lets you keep your keys. On a cold February night or at a busy restaurant, valet can be worth it. On a casual errand, a nearby lot may be the simpler choice. Comparing options ahead of time, including nearby garages and private spaces, helps you decide before you arrive.
A Valet Checklist, Start to Finish
Valet works best when you treat it as a short, simple transaction with a few clear steps. A quick checklist helps you hand over the car with confidence and get it back without surprises.
As you pull up
- Confirm the stand belongs to the business you are visiting. In busy districts, stands for different businesses may sit side by side.
- Read the posted sign for rates, hours and closing time.
- Put the car in park, set the parking brake and leave the engine running only if the attendant asks.
- Collect valuables, garage door openers and anything with your home address, such as mail or documents.
When you hand over the keys
- Separate your car key from house keys and other personal keys when possible.
- Mention anything unusual about the car, such as a tricky parking brake, a manual transmission or a low-hanging front bumper.
- Take the claim ticket and put it somewhere secure. Photograph it as a backup.
- Ask how to request the car when you are ready, especially if the service uses text messages or an app.
When you pick it up
- Request the car with enough lead time on busy nights.
- Walk around the car before driving away, looking for any new damage.
- Check that your mirrors and seat are adjusted for you before pulling into traffic.
- Look inside for anything left behind or missing.
Common Valet Mistakes
- Leaving the whole key ring. Handing over house keys along with the car key gives more access than the valet needs.
- Forgetting the closing time. If the valet stand closes before you return, retrieving your car may take extra steps. Ask before you go inside.
- Leaving sensitive items in the car. Registration and insurance cards usually need to stay with the vehicle, but garage door openers, spare keys and anything with your home address should go with you.
- Driving off without checking. Damage that is not reported on the spot is harder to address later.
- Losing the claim ticket. Without it, you may have to wait while staff verify your identity and ownership.
What this means on a winter night
In cold or snowy weather, valet can save a long, icy walk and spare you from scraping a car at the end of the evening. It can also be busier than usual, since many people make the same choice. Allow extra time for retrieval, wait inside if the business allows it and dress for a few minutes outdoors at the curb. If snow fell while you were inside, ask whether the car has been brushed off, and clear any remaining snow from the roof and lights before driving.
Valet Questions Readers Ask
Is tipping expected?
Customs vary by region and type of business. Many people tip when the car is returned. Some services include gratuity in the price, so read the posted terms.
What if my car is damaged while in valet care?
Raise it immediately with the attendant and the operator, take photos and keep your claim ticket. Liability terms are set by the operator and often appear on the ticket or sign. Your insurer can also explain your options.
Can I get something from my car while it is parked?
Usually, yes. Ask the attendant, who can retrieve the item or bring the car around. Expect it to take a few minutes.
Should I choose valet at a hospital?
When it is offered, hospital valet can help patients who have trouble walking or are arriving for a procedure. Ask whether the service has a separate rate or validation for patients.
