What to Ask Before Booking a Limo: 15 Essential Questions

What to Ask Before Booking a Limo

Not all limousine companies are created equal. These essential questions protect you from disappointment and ensure a premium experience.

Critical Questions to Ask

1. Licensing & Insurance

"Are you properly licensed and insured?"

What to confirm:

• Arizona TCP (Transportation Company Permit)
• Commercial vehicle insurance (minimum $1.5M liability)
• Workers' compensation coverage
• DOT compliance for larger vehicles

Red flag: Hesitation to provide documentation

2. Vehicle Age & Condition

"How old is the vehicle I'll be riding in?"

Industry standards:

• Sedans: Under 5 years
• SUVs: Under 5 years
• Stretch limos: Under 8-10 years (well-maintained)
• Party buses: Under 10 years

Red flag: Won't let you inspect vehicle beforehand

3. Total Pricing

"What is the complete cost including all fees?"

Breakdown should include:

• Hourly rate or flat fee
• Minimum hours required
• Fuel surcharge (if applicable)
• Gratuity (typically 18-22%)
• Tolls and parking fees
• Overtime rate

Red flag: Price seems too good to be true

4. Driver Information

"Tell me about your drivers."

Expect:

• Background checked
• Drug tested
• Professionally trained
• Years of experience
• Local knowledge

Red flag: No driver assignment until day-of

5. Backup Plans

"What happens if the vehicle breaks down?"

Professional response:

• Backup vehicle on standby
• Immediate dispatch capability
• Client notification protocols
• Alternative arrangements

Red flag: "That never happens"

Secondary Questions

6. Cancellation Policy

• How far in advance for full refund?
• Partial refund windows?
• Weather-related exceptions?

7. Contract Terms

• Written agreement provided?
• What happens if you go overtime?
• Payment schedule?

8. Amenities Included

• Bottled water?
• Ice and glasses?
• Phone chargers?
• WiFi availability?

9. Special Requests

• Can you accommodate decorations?
• Specific music requests?
• Route customizations?

10. Reviews & References

• Google reviews rating?
• Wedding planner recommendations?
• Length of time in business?

Price Comparison Tips

Apples-to-Apples

When comparing quotes:

1. Same vehicle type and age
2. Same number of hours
3. All fees included
4. Same service level

What Affects Price

• Vehicle type and size
• Day of week
• Time of year
• Duration of service
• Distance traveled

Typical Rate Ranges

Contract Essentials

Your agreement should specify:

• Date and times
• Vehicle description
• Driver expectations
• Full pricing breakdown
• Cancellation terms
• Overtime policy
• Contact information

Request a quote from a company that welcomes all your questions.