Riding in a chauffeured car is meant to be relaxing, and there are few rigid rules. The essentials: sit in the back (the right rear seat is traditional for a single passenger), let the chauffeur handle doors and luggage if you like, always wear your seat belt, tell the chauffeur your preferences — temperature, music, quiet — at the start, be ready at the pickup time, and treat the car with care. Beyond that, the chauffeur’s job is to adapt to you.

Quick guide

Question Answer
Where should I sit? Rear seat; right rear for a single passenger
Should I open my own door? You may; a chauffeur will usually open it
Seat belt? Always — it’s the law in NY and NJ
Can I eat or drink? Water is fine; ask before eating
Can I take calls? Yes; the chauffeur will keep the cabin quiet
Should I chat with the chauffeur? Only if you want to
Tip? Often included; extra for exceptional service

Where to sit

The right rear seat offers a curbside exit, the most legroom and a view of the road — the traditional “boss seat”. Two passengers take both rear seats; a third may sit in front. Read the S-Class rear-seat guide.

Doors and luggage

Chauffeurs typically open the rear door and load luggage. If you’d rather open your own door, that’s fine too.

Seat belts

New York requires rear-seat passengers 16 and older to buckle up, and New Jersey requires it too. Read the three-point seat belt.

Food, drink and smoking

Bottled water is usually provided. Ask before eating; messy or strong-smelling food affects the next passenger. Smoking and vaping are not permitted.

Calls and conversation

Say at the start whether you’ll be working or would like to chat. Read quiet ride and conversation.

Punctuality

Be ready at the pickup time; complimentary waiting is usually 15 minutes for non-airport pickups. Read wait time policies explained.

Tipping

Many quotes include gratuity. Read gratuity included explained and how much to tip a chauffeur.