Figuring out how much to tip can feel confusing, especially when tipping norms differ by service type, country, and even the size of your bill. This guide breaks down standard tipping percentages so you can tip confidently, whether you are at a restaurant, getting a haircut, or paying a delivery driver.
Standard Tipping Percentages by Service
Tipping customs vary widely, but here are commonly accepted starting points in the United States:
- Restaurants (sit-down): 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard, with 20%+ for excellent service.
- Restaurants (counter service): 0-10%, often optional or via a tip jar.
- Delivery drivers: 10-15%, with a $3-5 minimum for smaller orders.
- Hairdressers and barbers: 15-20% of the service cost.
- Taxi and rideshare drivers: 10-15% of the fare.
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per night, left daily.
Use our Tip Calculator to instantly work out the tip amount, total bill, and per-person split for any percentage.
How to Calculate a Tip Quickly (Without a Calculator)
If you want a quick mental-math shortcut:
- Find 10% of the bill by moving the decimal point one place left.
- Double that number to get 20%.
- For 15%, take the 10% figure and add half of it again.
For exact numbers, especially when splitting a bill among a group, it is faster and more accurate to use the Tip Calculator, which also handles per-person splits automatically.
Should You Tip on Tax?
Most etiquette guides recommend tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total including sales tax. However, many people simply tip on the final total for convenience since the difference is usually small. Either approach is broadly acceptable in casual settings.
When Is It OK to Tip Less (or Not at All)?
Tipping is meant to reward service, so it is reasonable to adjust downward for genuinely poor service. However, in the U.S., service staff often rely on tips as a significant part of their income, so many etiquette experts suggest tipping at least 10-15% even when service is mediocre, and addressing serious issues with management directly rather than solely through the tip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a standard tip percentage at a restaurant?
15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard in the United States, with 20% or more common for great service.
Do I tip on the total after tax or before tax?
Etiquette guides generally recommend tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, though tipping on the total is common and acceptable too.
How much should I tip for takeout or counter service?
Tipping for counter service or takeout is optional, typically 0-10% if you choose to tip at all.
How do I split a tip evenly among a group?
Add the tip to the total bill, then divide by the number of people. The Tip Calculator does this automatically when you enter the number of people.
Is tipping customary outside the United States?
Tipping norms vary significantly by country. Many countries include service charges in the bill or consider tipping optional or even unusual, so it is worth checking local customs when traveling.