- Meet age requirements. Tow truck drivers must be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid license. …
- Maintain a clean driving record. …
- Pass a background check. …
- Complete a drug screening. …
- Pass a physical ability test. …
- Pass a vision exam. …
- Obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL)
How to become a TOW TRUCK DRIVER and make $4500 a month
What does a tow truck driver do?
Responding to assistance requests from drivers, facilities, or other organizations working with the tow company to remove vehicles They load, transport and unload stranded or unlawfully parked vehicles. Drivers of tow trucks evaluate the situation’s safety and decide when and how to remove a car from a road safely.
Drivers may operate the following types of tow trucks:
Conventional tow truck
With traditional tow trucks, the axles and frame of the vehicle being towed must be encircled by large mechanical arms and chains. The parts work together to raise two tires off the ground so that the car can be pulled while it is in neutral. Because of the potential harm that conventional tow trucks can do to the towed vehicles, tow truck operators use them less frequently.
Wheel lift truck
Wheel lift trucks, also known as “full float trucks,” are used to raise one of the axles of a vehicle off the ground. Wheel lift trucks, however, use hydraulics as opposed to hooks and chains to lessen the risk of damage. Two tires lift off the ground, and the remaining tires are used by the tow truck to pull the vehicle.
Flatbed trucks
Rollback trucks, also known as flatbed trucks, use a flatbed that has been raised onto a ramp to load cars. These trucks are used for vehicles with rotating tires or extremely valuable vehicles.
Drivers of tow trucks respond to mishaps, malfunctions, and vehicle removals from private property. Therefore, the owners of the vehicles will find it easier to handle a frustrating situation if they have patience and a positive outlook.
What is a tow truck driver?
Tow truck drivers are trained professionals who can drive a variety of tow trucks and the related machinery. These drivers frequently have a commercial drivers license (CDL), and they might also be certified to drive tow trucks.
What does a tow truck driver make?
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 drivers license.
3. Maintain a clean driving record
Employers often check accident and ticket history.
4. Pass a background check
Many companies will conduct a background check on potential drivers.
5. Complete a drug screening
Tow truck drivers frequently undergo drug tests as part of the hiring process.
6. Pass a physical ability test
Tow truck drivers must exhibit their physical fitness because they perform very physical tasks.
7. Pass a vision exam
For safe operation of machinery and vehicles, good vision is required.
8. Obtain your commercial drivers license (CDL)
According to federal law, drivers of vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds must possess a CDL. Some tow truck drivers who drive smaller trucks do not require a CDL, but getting one will enable you to drive bigger trucks and make your resume more impressive.
Through the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state, you can obtain a Class A, Class B, or Class C CDL. State-specific requirements may differ and may include a written test, residency documentation, medical examination, driving skills test, and any necessary fees.
9. Earn a tow truck driving certification
In some states, you must first obtain a tow truck certification before you can drive.
10. Shadow an experienced driver
Some businesses might ask you to spend a certain number of hours learning additional driving, towing, and company policies from another driver.
11. Earn certification through the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA)
You can pursue certification through the TRAA after gaining experience, which offers three varying levels of certification based on your requirements and experience. The levels include:
12. Apply for a job
Find open positions on job search websites, in publications and organizations for truck drivers, or by networking with friends and family.
13. Interview
Dress professionally when invited for an interview, bring at least five copies of your resume, and be ready to go into detail about your experience and skills. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers to show that you are interested in the company so that you can mention what you like about their practices or mission.
Frequently asked questions
A few of the frequently asked questions about working as a tow truck driver are listed below:
Can I become a tow truck driver if Ive had an accident?
Future employers will determine whether an accident on your driving record disqualifies you from employment. They might look at the accident’s severity and who was at fault. In most cases, receiving a minor traffic ticket won’t prevent you from becoming a tow truck driver.
Your managers will decide if you can continue working if you are a tow truck driver and have an accident. You are ineligible to drive tow trucks if you have ever experienced an incident that led to the loss of your license or CDL.
What are the typical work hours for a truck driver?
Since tow truck businesses are typically open around-the-clock, tow truck drivers may work irregular hours. This provides many opportunities to earn extra income.
What is the job outlook for tow truck drivers?
What skills are important for tow truck drivers?
To succeed in their jobs, tow truck drivers should have the following abilities:
Jobs similar to tow truck drivers
There are several positions you might consider if you’re interested in a driving career. Ten occupations that are comparable to tow truck drivers are listed below:
FAQ
Is it hard to drive a tow truck?
No one contests the fact that tow truck operators have a challenging job. Since tow companies must be available around-the-clock, most drivers put in very long shifts. There are other risks that tow truck drivers must contend with in addition to the physical demands of their work.
Where do tow truck drivers get paid the most?
- San Diego, CA. $23.71 per hour. 13 salaries reported.
- Denver, CO. $23.60 per hour. 12 salaries reported.
- Philadelphia, PA. $23.37 per hour. 11 salaries reported.
- Houston, TX. $22.62 per hour. 13 salaries reported.
- Phoenix, AZ. $22.56 per hour. …
- Show more nearby cities.
How profitable is a tow truck?
The typical tow truck business owner earns between $30,000 and $40,000 per year in profits, which is the maximum amount that can be made. The precise sum varies based on the area where a business is located.
How much do local tow truck drivers make?
The typical annual wage for a tow truck driver is $42,789, or $20. 57 per hour, in the United States. The bottom 10% of that spectrum, or $29,000 for the bottom 10%, earns about that much annually, while the top 10% earns $61,000.
