Drive-thru service is any point of transaction which is made accessible to drivers of automobiles by being placed alongside a vehicle lane at the normal window level on the driver's side of a car. It applies especially to banks and fast food restaurants, but can also be offered for libraries, post offices, pharmacies, and other shops and services.

This feature does not apply to gas stations, toll booths, or to other uses where its presence would not be especially notable. It also does not apply to places where a car is expected to remain parked or standing for an extended time, such as drive-in cinemas.

The service point allows a transaction from the driver's window alongside a vehicle lane. Its convenience is supplementary to the site's use; uses where such access is inherent, and places intended for extended parking, remain excluded.