Want to Drive a Big Rig? Here’s How to Become a Tow Truck Driver

Becoming a tow truck driver can be a fulfilling job for people who enjoy driving and helping others in need. Tow truck drivers are essential for roadside assistance, clearing accidents, and ensuring safe roads. If you want to go into this field, you should know the steps, requirements, and skills you’ll need.

Understanding the Role of a Tow Truck Driver

Tow truck drivers are essential for keeping roads safe and helping drivers in need. Helping people whose cars have broken down or been in crashes. This job can be physically demanding and requires basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics, safety rules, and good customer service skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely towing cars from accident sites or breakdown locations.
• Helping and guiding stranded drivers with necessary information.
• Using specialized towing tools like winches and hydraulic lifts.
• Following the rules for safety and traffic on the job.

Tow Truck Requirements

If you’re considering a career as a tow truck driver, it’s important to know the key requirements. These may vary by state or region, but in general, they include the following:

Age Requirement

Most states require tow truck drivers to be at least 18 years old. Some areas may require drivers to be 21, especially for those handling larger trucks.

Education

A high school diploma or something similar is generally needed. Some employers might prefer applicants with extra training in fields like automotive technology.

Driver’s License

You need a legal driver’s license to drive a tow truck. The specific type of license you’ll need depends on the weight of the tow truck and the vehicles you’ll tow.

• For heavy cars with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of over 26,001 pounds, you need a Class B license.
• You need a Commercial Driver’s License or CDL for a tow truck, especially when towing heavier vehicles or driving larger tow trucks.

Background Check

Background checks are often done by employers to make sure that job applicants have a clean driving record and no criminal past that could put people in danger.

Physical Fitness

The physical demands of driving a tow truck can be high. Employers often require drivers to pass physical assessments to show they can handle heavy equipment and work in all types of weather.

How to Get a Tow Truck License

Getting the right license is essential to starting your career as a tow truck driver. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Obtain Your Driver’s License

Begin by securing a standard driver’s license if you don’t already have one. A clean driving record is important, as it improves your chances of employment.

Apply for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Depending on your state, a CDL may be required for tow truck drivers. Here’s how to get one:

• To start, enroll in a CDL training program; many community colleges and vocational schools offer courses that prepare you for the CDL exam.
• Next, study your state’s CDL manual and take practice tests to pass the written exam.
• After that, complete behind-the-wheel training to gain supervised, hands-on driving experience.
• Finally, schedule and take your driving test with an examiner to obtain your CDL.

Additional Certifications

After a while of work, the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) will let you get certified. TRAA offers three levels of certification based on your skills and experience:

• Level 1 certification is for light-duty towing and recovery, including routine customer pickups.
• Level 2 certification covers medium- or heavy-duty towing and involves skills like hazmat recovery and loading or unloading trailers and cargo.
• Level 3 is the highest certification for heavy recovery specialists. You need to be a certified master tower, have worked as a recovery specialist for two years, and show letters of reference in order to get this certification. You must also pass both the written and spoken parts of the test.

What You Need to Be a Tow Truck Driver

Besides the licenses, there are a few other skills and qualifications that are important for a successful career in towing:

• Familiarize yourself with various tow truck types (e.g., flatbed, hook-and-chain) and learn to operate them safely. Knowing how to load and secure vehicles is crucial.
• Tow truck drivers often interact with people in stressful situations. Good communication and empathy can make a big difference for stranded motorists.
• Basic mechanical knowledge is helpful for diagnosing issues on-site and for safe towing practices.
• Understanding and following safety protocols is essential, especially when working around traffic or with heavy equipment.
• Always wear necessary protective gear, like high-visibility vests, to stay safe.

Salary and Career Outlook

Tow truck drivers in the U.S. typically earn an average of $54,320 annually. The job outlook for tow truck drivers is positive, with a projected growth rate of about 5% from 2023 to 2033 due to the increasing number of vehicles on the road. Opportunities for advancement exist, such as moving into management roles or starting a towing business. Driving a tow truck can be a satisfying job that pays well and doesn’t require much downtime.

Building a Rewarding Career as a Tow Truck Driver

A career as a tow truck driver offers the chance to help others while ensuring road safety. Understanding the requirements and responsibilities is crucial for success in this role. With proper training, certification, and a commitment to safety and customer service, aspiring drivers can build a fulfilling career in this growing field. The positive job outlook and potential for advancement further enhance the appeal of becoming a tow truck driver.