Written by the Starline Team | Last updated: July 31, 2025
Prom season is exciting—but it also piles more tasks onto an already packed calendar of fittings, flowers, and dinner plans.
A professional limousine service removes one big worry: how everyone will get to every stop safely and on time.
Use the six points below to keep the process simple, cost-effective, and stress-free.
1. Confirm Your Guest List and Set a Realistic Budget
Numbers first: how many riders and how many hours will you need? Most groups book 4–6 hours to cover photos, dinner, the dance, and the ride home. Below is Starline’s current baseline for Seattle-area prom rentals:
| Vehicle | Minimum Hours | Hourly Rate | Capacity | Estimated Total* | Per-Person* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | 3 | $75 | 3 | $270 | $90 |
| Mid SUV | 3 | $95 | 4 | $342 | $85 |
| Large SUV | 3 | $110 | 7 | $396 | $57 |
| Stretch Limo | 4 | $110 | 10 | $528 | $53 |
| Party Bus | 4 | $135 | 12 | $648 | $54 |
*Total assumes minimum hours + 20 % chauffeur gratuity.
Cost-split tip: Confirm riders early, divide the total, and collect Venmo or Zelle payments up front.
2. Limo Service for Prom Is Not Only About Price
“As with most things in life, you get what you pay for” still holds true. Price matters, but service, reliability, and safety matter more. When you call prospective companies, notice how they answer questions like:
- How long have you been in business?
- What do recent reviewers say about the prom service?
- Are there hidden fees (fuel, admin, cleaning)?
- Is the gratuity built in or separate?
- What’s your on-time record?
If the representative sounds rushed or vague, keep looking. This is prom night—there are no do-overs.
“Starline Limo Service is the best. They made sure the limousine we wanted was available, clean, and safe. As a nervous parent, putting 10 kids into one car is rather nerve-racking. Starline delivered top-notch service for prom. Thank you to the staff and drivers.”
–Andrea K.
3. Choose the Vehicle That Fits Your Group and Your Vibe
With rates in mind, think about:
- Group size and attire: gowns and tuxes need space.
- Amenities: Bluetooth, lighting, privacy partition.
- Look and feel: black SUV for understated style, classic white stretch for the red-carpet moment.
Want to be sure? Schedule a quick visit and inspect the exact vehicle before you sign.
4. Verify Safety Credentials Up Front
Seattle requires every limousine operator to carry a valid WA State limousine license and commercial insurance. Ask for:
- Proof of active license and insurance certificates.
- Zero-tolerance policy for alcohol.
- Confirmation that chauffeurs pass background checks and random drug tests.
Five minutes of due diligence now prevents major headaches later.
5. Make Your Reservation Early
Prom dates in Seattle cluster into late April through early June, and prime vehicles disappear fast. Book 6–8 weeks out to lock in:
- Your preferred vehicle and color.
- An experienced Starline chauffeur (no last-minute subcontractors).
- A flexible window—pickup times can be adjusted up to 72 hours before the event.
Once you reserve, you’ll receive an email confirmation plus a copy of the contract and cancellation policy for your records.
6. Day-Of Timeline and Etiquette Checklist
Suggested schedule (adjust to your school’s start time):
- 4:30 p.m. – Chauffeur arrives; parent signs itinerary & exchanges contact numbers
- 5:00 p.m. – Photo stop at Kerry Park or Gas Works Park
- 6:00 p.m. – Group dinner (Capitol Hill or Bellevue)
- 7:30 p.m. – Drop-off at prom venue
- 11:00 p.m. – Pick-up; optional dessert stop at Alki Beach
- 12:30 a.m. – Final home drop-offs
Etiquette reminders:
- Be on time: overtime bills in 30-minute increments.
- Seat belts are mandatory under WA law.
- No alcohol for minors: zero-tolerance policy.
- Treat the vehicle with care: glitter bombs belong at the venue, not in the limo.
- Parents stay informed: you’ll have the chauffeur’s direct mobile number all night.
Ready to Reserve?
Since 2007, Starline Town Car & Limousine Service has helped Seattle-area families enjoy a safe, stylish prom night. Complete our Express Online Reservation form to hold your date today or reach out for a personalized quote.
Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah, and surrounding communities.