Car valets wash, clean and polish motor vehicles.


Typical Salary

£21,000 – £25,000

per year

Working Hours

37–45

hours per week

Career Area

Vehicle valeters and cleaners

View related courses

Day-to-day tasks

As a car valet you would:

  • check vehicles before cleaning and report any scratches or damage
  • use high-pressure hoses to clean cars, vans and fleet vehicles
  • follow manufacturer's instructions on safe use of cleaning products
  • clean windows, wheels, door handles and mirrors
  • vacuum and shampoo upholstery and carpets
  • wax and polish bodywork
  • apply gels and other finishes to bumpers and trims
  • collect and deliver vehicles, or move and park vehicles on site

Skills needed

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to work on your own
  • the ability to work well with others
  • customer service skills
  • the ability to operate and control equipment
  • the ability to organise your time and workload
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • physical fitness and endurance
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Entry requirements

You may need a driving licence for some jobs.

How to get into this role

You can get into this job by applying directly.

Career progression

With experience, you could become a team leader or supervisor, or go on to start your own business.