Tipping

• First, remember that it's traditional to tip twice -- once when dropping off your vehicle and a second time when it is being retrieved. Opinions on proper tip amounts vary but according to a study by Lexus, the average American gratuity is $3 per vehicle. However, according to bestvaletparking.com, valet attendants generally expect $2 upon entry and another $2 upon exit. The National Parking Association recommends tips of $2 to $5.
  
  

The Extra Mile

• According to the Lexus study, 87 percent of respondents tip primarily on the friendliness of the valet parker. When attendants goes out of their way to provide good service, it is appropriate to recognize the effort. Furthermore, remember that valets are expected to work in rain, snow and other inclement weather conditions and often find themselves doing so out of doors. Three quarters of Americans surveyed said bad weather increases their tip.
  
  

The Jewel Case

• The best spots cost the most money. According to the National Parking Association, drivers who wish to get the "jewel case," a prime parking spot where they can see their car, might expect to tip as much as $10 or $20. Regardless of the gratuity, avoid tipping with change. Stick with folding money.
  
  

Cleanliness

• While your vehicle doesn't have to be in factory condition to impress the parking attendant, it's just good manners to keep it habitable enough so that someone parking it doesn't have to hold his or her nose. Cars with dirty interiors or vehicles cluttered with junk or trash on the seats or floor are unpleasant environments. Valet attendants often refer to cars with a foul odor as "holy rollers," since they have to roll down the windows to escape the smell.
  
  

Valuables

• Remember to keep valuables stowed safely rather than laying out. A policy of leaving expensive items at home or safely locked can prevent uncomfortable questions about their whereabouts when the car is delivered back into the owner's possession. Also, remember to let the valet attendant know about any anti-theft devices on the automobile. Finally, be sure to quickly inspect the vehicle before drop-off and after retrieval so that any damage can be promptly reported.
  
  

Respect

• No one likes to be treated like they are a second-class citizen. Just as it's the valet's responsibility to deliver service with a smile, it's incumbent upon the car owner to reciprocate respect for the attendant. Remember to thank your valet parker for her work as well as notice and recognize any extra effort or service. Finally, remember your claim ticket. It makes the valet attendant's job far easier.