If you aspire to become a tow truck driver, you should know there’s more to it than hauling broken-down vehicles.
What does it take to be a tow truck driver? You need the proper training, licensing and certifications as well as interpersonal skills and sufficient physical fitness. Being a tow truck driver takes hard work and dedication. But without towing professionals, many drivers would be stranded on the road with no help. If you want to know how to become a tow truck driver, the following guide will show you what it takes.
Driving a tow truck is an exciting career that suits individuals who love being on the road and helping people in need. As a tow truck driver, no two days are ever the same. You get to experience new challenges while providing a valuable service to stranded motorists.
If you’re interested in becoming a tow truck driver, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process. We’ll cover everything from the job duties and salary expectations to the licenses and certifications required. Read on to learn what it takes to break into this dynamic field!
An Overview of the Role
Before diving into the details let’s quick review what a tow truck driver does on a daily basis
- Drives a tow truck to transport damaged, illegally parked or disabled vehicles
- Safely hooks up vehicles and tows them to a repair shop, impound lot or other destination
- Operates specialized equipment like wheel lift and winch systems
- Provides roadside assistance by jump starting batteries, changing flat tires and supplying gas
- Carefully transports vehicles through towing and loading procedures
- Maintains detailed records of services provided and miles driven
- Maintains and inspects tow trucks and equipment
- Complies with laws and regulations governing towing procedures
- Works flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays
It’s a multifaceted job that combines driving skills with customer service and mechanical knowledge Next, let’s look at what it takes to get your towing career started
Step 1: Meet the Minimum Age Requirement
To operate a tow truck professionally, you must be at least 18 years old. This is the legal age requirement for obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) which is mandatory for the job.
Some employers may prefer applicants who are at least 21 years old since this indicates a longer and more mature driving history. But legally, 18 is the minimum age to get licensed and start working as a tow truck driver.
Step 2: Obtain a Valid Driver’s License
Naturally, having a current driver’s license in good standing is a fundamental job requirement. You’ll need a regular Class C non-commercial license for at least a year before applying for your CDL.
Maintaining a clean driving record with no DUI convictions or license suspensions is also critical. Violations will make it much harder to qualify for your CDL.
Step 3: Pass a Drug Screening
Tow truck companies require drivers to pass a drug test both before hiring and randomly during employment. This ensures operators remain drug-free for the safety of themselves and the public.
Abstain from any substance use at least several weeks prior to your pre-employment drug screening. Be prepared to submit to additional random, unannounced drug tests throughout your career.
Step 4: Undergo a Physical Ability Assessment
The job has physical demands like frequent climbing, lifting and pulling. You’ll need mobility, coordination and reasonable strength to perform required duties safely.
Be ready to:
- Lift up to 50 lbs alone or 100+ lbs with assistance
- Crouch, crawl and reach to access equipment
- Endure sitting for long periods while driving
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Push/pull vehicles into position for towing
Not all companies do formal physical ability evaluations, but expect to demonstrate these capabilities.
Step 5: Get a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
The most crucial step to becoming a tow truck driver is earning your CDL. The specific type required depends on the weight class of the trucks you’ll be operating:
- Class A CDL: For towing vehicles over 26,000 lbs, like semi-trucks
- Class B CDL: For towing medium-duty trucks between 26,000-10,000 lbs
- Class C CDL: For light-duty tow trucks under 10,000 lbs
To qualify, you’ll need to pass knowledge and skills exams administered by your state’s DMV. CDL training programs can help you prepare by teaching you how to inspect vehicles, navigate obstacles courses, perform basic maneuvers and more.
Step 6: Complete On-the-Job Training
Even after obtaining your CDL, expect 1-6 months of employer-provided on-site training to become fully proficient. You’ll receive hands-on instruction covering:
- Equipment operation like controls, safety features, limitations
- Proper securing and towing procedures for all vehicle types
- Company policies, documentation requirements, radio communication protocols
- Defensive driving techniques for operating large tow rigs
Take this training time to ask lots of questions and master your role. When companies certify your readiness, then you can start official duties as a solo tow operator.
Additional Requirements to Qualify
Beyond the major steps outlined above, most towing companies will have additional criteria:
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Clean criminal history: Pass an extensive multi-state background check. Serious convictions often disqualify candidates.
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Valid work authorization: If required, have proper documentation to work legally in the United States.
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High school diploma or GED: Proof of graduation demonstrates basic knowledge abilities.
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Strong customer service skills: Handle stressed motorists professionally and compassionately.
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Ability to work flexible schedules: Pick up shifts on evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
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Valid medical card: Obtain DOT health certification to legally operate commercial vehicles.
Meeting all qualifications fully makes you stand out as a top towing job candidate.
What is the Earning Potential as a Tow Truck Driver?
As of 2022, the average national salary for tow truck drivers is $35,790 per year. Those just starting out typically fall within the $22,000 – $31,000 range, while top earners with years of experience can make upward of $47,000 annually.
In addition to your regular hourly or annual wage, you can also earn tips from satisfied customers you assist. And since tow truck driving often involves working overtime, those extra hours also boost your overall earning potential.
Should You Become a Tow Truck Driver?
If you’re drawn to the excitement of roadside assistance, flexible scheduling, hands-on work and helping people in need, then tow truck driving could be an excellent career choice.
This guide covered the main steps for gaining the licenses, training and qualifications to break into the field. Of course, check specific requirements in your state and with potential employers. If you have a passion for driving,auto mechanics and customer service, the next towing gig is waiting for you!
Certifications to Be a Tow Truck Driver
When ready to take the next stride in your tow trucking endeavor, you can conduct your certification in-person or online through the Towing and Recovery Association of America. The certification program is available for those who already have experience in towing. TRAA creates national standards for tow truck drivers, and the training covers aspects like customer service, safety, equipment, truck maintenance and incident management.
Three levels of certification exist.
- Level 1 – Light Duty: At the first stage, you must meet all your state’s driving requirements for light-duty training. You will also need 90 days of tow truck experience within the last five years. Level one certification includes a test with 100 questions. You will receive the certificate within several days of passing the exam. With level one certification, you can operate a truck with a Lift and Tow hidden wheel lift.
- Level 2 – Medium/Heavy Duty: The second certification program is the middle level, which entails one year of employment as a heavy or medium-duty tow trucker. Other prerequisites include one year as a recovery operator and a commercial driver’s license. You also need level one certification. Level two’s test has a written section on theoretical knowledge and an oral segment to examine how you would respond to realistic situations.
- Level 3 – Heavy Recovery Specialist: You receive your heavy-duty certification at the final level. You will need a commercial driver’s license, including endorsements and a level two certification. Two years of professional experience is also necessary. The exam has a written segment to test your theoretical awareness and an oral portion like level two.
Lift and Tow suggests continuing your certification until you reach the third and final tier. It will help you become a well-rounded tow truck driver that’s capable of responding to a variety of jobs.
Typical Attributes of a Tow Truck Driver
It all comes down to one final question — what does becoming a tow truck driver take?
In any situation, patience and the willingness to support people in need are at the forefront of your duties. A person who relies on your assistance will often be frustrated, on a time crunch, worried, angry, or distraught. Their circumstance will often seem helpless until the tow truck driver arrives and saves the day. It’s crucial to listen and empathize with your customers because we have all been there, and it’s never fun.
When you get called to respond to an accident, there is potential for exposure to unpleasant sights. You may have to deal with people who are traumatized, stunned or emotional in other ways. Handling high-stress situations can be rewarding, primarily if you can provide critical aid to people in dangerous situations.
Although you don’t get to choose the time, place or situation, preparing yourself for anything is imperative. You may even experience working in an unfavorable location like a busy highway or deserted road. Having an outgoing personality can also serve you well.
The characteristics of a tow truck driver include being able to handle various working conditions. You can’t put a cherry on top — plain and simple, it’s hard and dirty work. Sometimes, you may be asked to do other things like assist someone who needs help fixing a car or changing a tire. And think about how many people get locked out of their cars every year or need help jumpstarting a battery. You may even have to help with connecting loose wires, replacing spark plugs and adding fuel.
Knowing how different cars and trucks work is another useful ability to have. Understanding how different makes, models and years of vehicles work and how to fix them is vital. What if you’re not on a call? You may need to work at the mechanic shop. Transitioning from one role to the next will help you gain an advantage in your tow lifting career.
As a final thought, consider the flexibility required for the job. Being a tow truck driver means you’ll have a job every day of the year for full 24-hour days. Cars, trucks and other vehicles need towing at all hours of the day and night, allowing you to work late at night, mid-day or early mornings.
How To Become A Tow Truck Driver
How do I become a tow truck driver?
Follow these steps to become a tow truck driver: 1. Meet age requirements Tow truck drivers must be at least 18 years old. 2. Hold a valid license Tow truck drivers should have a valid state driver’s license. 3. Maintain a clean driving record Employers often check accident and ticket history. 4. Pass a background check
How old do you need to be a tow truck driver?
You need to be at least 18 years old to be a tow truck driver, but most towing companies prefer hiring people who are at least 21 to 25 years of age. This increased age threshold ensures potential candidates have some experience on the road before hire. What are the education requirements for becoming a tow truck driver?
Do you need a license to drive a tow truck?
As for licenses and certifications, the only one you need to be a tow truck driver is the standard driver’s license for your state. There’s no legal requirement to go for your CDL, or Commercial Driver’s License like you would do if you wanted to drive trailer trucks. However, having a CDL will be a big plus in your job search.
How do I start a career in towing and hauling?
To start a career in towing and hauling is easy. If you meet the minimum age and if you have the standard driver’s license then you can apply to drive a tow truck. However, a commercial driver’s license, or CDL, can help you in your job search. According to federal law, you need a CDL to tow loads of 26,000 pounds or more.
