Drive-thrus are designed for speed and convenience, but some habits can slow the line, annoy staff, or even put you at risk. What feels like a small action behind the wheel can cause major frustration for everyone else waiting. Restaurant employees often share the same pet peeves when it comes to customer behavior. Avoiding these mistakes keeps the line moving and makes the experience smoother for all. Here are six things you should never do in a restaurant drive-thru.
1. Changing Your Order at the Window
Drive-thrus are built for quick service, not last-minute decision changes. Altering your order after reaching the payment or pickup window slows down the entire line. It creates confusion for staff and forces others to wait longer. If you’re unsure, park and go inside instead. Being prepared before you pull up shows respect for everyone’s time.
2. Talking on the Phone While Ordering
Using your phone during ordering makes it harder for staff to hear and confirm details. Miscommunication leads to mistakes and delays. It also frustrates workers who have to repeat themselves multiple times. Hanging up or pausing your call takes only a moment but ensures accuracy. Clear communication speeds things up for both you and the car behind you.
3. Taking Forever to Decide
Pausing at the menu board for too long holds up the line. Staff expect customers to have a general idea of what they want. While scanning the menu is fine, excessive hesitation frustrates everyone waiting. Checking the menu online before you arrive can help. Quick decisions keep the drive-thru flowing smoothly.
4. Leaving Trash in the Window or On the Ledge
Handing over your personal garbage to a drive-thru worker isn’t just rude—it’s unsanitary. Employees are there to handle food, not clean out your car. Trash disposal slows down service and makes the workspace unpleasant. Use a trash can in the parking lot instead. Respecting boundaries helps staff focus on your order.
5. Ignoring Safety Rules
Cutting in line, tailgating, or pulling up too far endangers both staff and other drivers. Drive-thru lanes are tight spaces, and reckless behavior causes accidents. Staying patient and keeping a safe distance ensures smoother service. Safety matters as much in a drive-thru as it does on the road. Courtesy and caution go hand in hand.
6. Counting Out Change at the Window
Digging through coins or bills at the window slows everyone down. Exact change is fine, but fumbling with pockets wastes valuable time. Most drive-thrus now accept cards or mobile payments, which are much faster. If you must pay with cash, have it ready before you pull up. Quick transactions keep the line moving efficiently.
Drive-Thru Etiquette Keeps Everyone Happy
A drive-thru should be convenient for both customers and employees, but bad habits can ruin the experience. Avoiding order changes, staying off your phone, and being ready to pay are simple steps that make a big difference. Respect for time, safety, and cleanliness goes a long way. The smoother the process, the better it is for everyone in line.
Have you seen bad drive-thru behavior that should be added to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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