How much should you tip a limo driver?

How Much Should I Tip My Limo Driver?

We get asked this all the time.  Many people are unsure of how much or what is an appropriate gratuity for the Limo Driver.  Keep in mind, that Drivers, or Chauffeurs as we like to call them, are paid either entirely on a gratuity basis or a very little hourly rate and then gratuity on top of that.  It's very similar to a waiter/waitress at a restaurant.  Their entire salary revolves around the service they offer and the gratuity they make off of that service.  Chauffeurs for limo companies are also mainly part timers with full time jobs just trying to make some extra money on the weekends.  Dedicated and hard working professionals.  

So, how much?  Industry standard is between 18-22% of the amount spent on the limo.  Chauffeurs make really good pay, but their service and what you expect out of them should be reflected in how much they get paid.  Meaning, it's not a guaranteed pay.  Gratuity for a Chauffeur, like anywhere, is optional and based on the service.  If the Chauffeur did an excellent job, then a 20% gratuity is standard, and sometimes even a little more if you deem they deserved it.  If they do a poor job, then by all means, you're more than able to take back some of the gratuity. 

At Heaven On Wheels, we add on a 20% Gratuity to all reservations.  We do require that because honestly, a lot of times people forget, or may be intoxicated by the end of the night and do not tip the drivers.  However, if you ever feel that your Chauffeur did an exceptional job, you can definitely pay your Chauffeur above and beyond the 20% minimum.  This is an industry standard and the practice is common most everywhere, again similar to automatic gratuity on larger groups at a restaurant.  However, if for any reason, you feel your Chauffeur did not deserve the 20%, please let us know at your earliest convenience and we will refund you what you believe is a fair amount to pay for the Chauffeurs time and service. 

So the next time you find yourself asking the question, "how much should I tip my driver," consider the training, licenses, DOT regulations, City permitting and insurance requirements it takes to be a professional Chauffeur, and also remember and keep in mind the precious, precious cargo they are carrying before shorting that Chauffeur!  :)