Do I need qualifications to be a car valeter?

No. Employers mostly look for care, reliability and some practical experience, although training from a detailing or paint protection supplier can help.

What if I have only ever cleaned my own car?

Say so honestly and focus on the detail you pay attention to. Any cleaning, vehicle or customer-facing job helps, and some firms will ask for a short trial.

Should I include photos of my work?

If you have before and after photos, offer a link or bring them to an interview. A good result speaks for itself.

Car valeter CV example

A strong car valeter CV shows care with other people's cars, an eye for detail and the steps you follow on a full valet, inside and out. It should mention the products and machines you use, how many cars you finish in a day and how you deal with customers.

Profile

Detail-minded car valeter with experience cleaning and finishing cars to a high standard in a busy valeting centre. Confident with hand washing, machine polishing and interior deep cleans, and careful to check each car for damage before starting. Friendly with customers and happy to work at pace while keeping quality up.

Experience

Car Valeter

a hand car wash and valeting centre

Valeted eight to ten cars a day, from quick mini valets to full interior and exterior details

Checked each car for existing scratches and marks before starting and pointed them out to the customer

Used a dual-action polisher, clay bar and wax to restore and protect paintwork

Deep cleaned seats, carpets and mats using steam and upholstery cleaners

Kept products and equipment stocked, clean and stored safely, following COSHH guidance

Car Preparation Assistant

a used-car dealership

Cleaned and prepared cars for sale, inside and out, before customer handovers

Moved cars around the forecourt carefully and kept the lot tidy

Reported marks, scuffs and warning lights to the sales team

Helped with handover checks and left each car ready for its new owner

Example · fictional candidate · Harbour design · Use this design

Tips for a car valeter CV

Show the range of services you carry out, from wash and dry to polishing, wax, steam cleaning and interior deep cleans
Give a number such as cars per day, but make sure the quality of your finish comes across too
Name the machines and products you use, such as polishers, steam cleaners and any paint protection products
Mention checking cars for damage before you start, which shows care and protects the business
Include a full driving licence, since you may need to move cars around the site
Add any customer compliments or repeat customers you have had

Applying with a cover letter? See our car valeter cover letter example.