Yes, valet parking is safe when it is run by a professional company with trained attendants, a secure key system and claim tickets. You can make it safer still by keeping your valuables with you, holding on to your claim ticket and choosing a company you have checked out.
Why are professional valet attendants safe drivers?
Handing your keys to someone you have just met can feel uncomfortable, especially if you have put time and money into your car. But a professional valet attendant parks many cars every week, of every size and type, in the same lot or garage. They know the layout, the tight turns and the spaces set aside for valet. That routine is a big part of why valet is often less risky than circling a crowded public garage yourself.
A well-run valet stand also controls the keys. Keys are tagged to a claim ticket, kept in one place and handed back only to the person holding the matching ticket. That system, more than anything else, is what keeps your car going home with you.
What should you do when you hand over your keys?
- Take your valuables. Bring your phone, wallet, sunglasses, bags and anything else you will want later. Nothing of value then sits in the car while you are away.
- Hand over only the car key if you can. If your house keys are on the same ring and come off easily, keep them with you.
- Keep your claim ticket. The ticket is how the attendant matches you to your car. Put it somewhere safe. Taking a quick photo of it on your phone can help if it goes missing.
- Mention anything unusual. If your car has a quirk, such as a tricky parking brake or a remote start, tell the attendant at drop-off.
What if you lose your valet claim ticket?
You can still get your car back. Tell an attendant as soon as you notice. A careful company will not release a car on someone's word alone, so expect to show who you are and confirm details about the car before it is brought around. That check takes longer than handing over a ticket, especially at a busy event, but it is there to protect you.
How do you choose a safe valet company?
If you are hiring valet for an event or a business, ask these questions before you book:
- Who will be parking the cars? Find out whether the attendants are the company's own employees or subcontracted workers you know nothing about.
- How are attendants trained? Ask about driving and parking training, key control and guest service.
- How are keys controlled? Look for a clear ticket and key system and a stand that is never left unattended.
- What insurance does the company carry? A professional company carries insurance for the vehicles in its care and can show you proof.
- Is there a plan for your site? A good company asks where guests will arrive, where cars will be parked and how many people you expect, before it gives you a price.
How does VIP keep valet safe?
VIP Parking Solutions staffs every assignment with its own employees, never subcontractors. Our attendants are trained in careful driving and parking, key control, claim tickets and guest service. VIP follows local and state rules for the work we do and carries insurance for the vehicles in our care.
If you are planning an event, see how we run event valet, browse all our services, or request a quote through the event quote form.
Frequently asked questions
You can still get your car back. Tell the attendant right away and expect to prove the car is yours before it is released, which takes longer than handing over a ticket.
Tipping is not required, but it is a common way to thank an attendant for good service. Many people tip when their car is returned.
Yes. VIP staffs every assignment with its own trained employees and does not use subcontractors.