How to Become a Tow Truck Driver

Becoming a tow truck driver is an honorable and potentially lucrative profession. Run a search for “how much does a tow truck driver make,” and you’ll get a gamut of answers.

However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that tow truck drivers and related professions can earn as much as $33.61 per hour. Let’s examine how to get there by going step-by-step through the process of becoming a tow truck driver.

Maintain a Great Driving Record

Work to ensure a great driving record first and foremost before ever taking the next step with your tow truck training. That means passing your regular driver’s exam, reaching 18 years of age and older without any at-fault accidents, and avoiding traffic citations.

It’s possible to incur some infractions here and there, but re-establishing a safe and responsible record is essential. If there’s a history that suggests recurring recklessness, the next part is going to make it difficult to proceed.

Pass the Necessary Preliminary Examinations

There are several preliminary examinations you’ll have to complete. That includes background checks, particularly showing responsible behavior with an automobile. No reckless driving, DUIs, etc.

Establish that you’re physically safe to drive. That means taking and passing vision exams and drug screenings. Last but not least, qualifying for most tow truck jobs will mean you need a recent physical that shows you’re healthy enough to manage some of the lifting and strain that’s required.

Take and Pass the CDL

You cannot be eligible for any tow truck driver jobs until you’ve got the right licensing and certification. Once you’ve earned your personal driver’s license, it’s time to show you’re capable of driving a commercial vehicle.

In the US, that means passing the CDL examination for a commercial driver’s license. This qualifies you to handle a variety of automobiles with special equipment, measurements, and controls. (Think semi-trucks, tow trucks, refrigerated trucks, and so on.)

Earn Certification

Beyond the CDL, most states have specific certification requirements for how to become a tow truck driver. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. Also, consider certification and training through the Energy Security Agency.

Job Shadow

An example is one of the greatest teachers. So, go to a tow truck driver in your area or one in a neighboring community. Explain your aspirations, and ask if you can job-shadow an active driver.

This is a good way to see tow truck drivers in action. It’s also useful for networking when it’s time to look for a job.

Determine Your Path

There are two paths you can go as a tow truck driver. You can work for someone else or become an owner-operator.

With the right training and marketing, it’s possible to start your own business immediately. Check with your local police department while you’re at it. See if there are any specific requirements for getting placed on their rotating list for when they need to call a towing service for an involved party.

There’s also no harm in starting with a local towing service. If you’ve already job-shadowed one, that’s a good place to start. Otherwise, check the online job boards and classifieds. Go to your yellow pages and start calling services directly, too.

Becoming a Tow Truck Driver Is a Worthy Professional Choice

If you work as a tow truck driver, you’ll see in a hurry what a valuable service you can provide to people when they need you the most. This act of helping others can be very fulfilling and lucrative.

Ready to take the next step? Take the suggestions presented here. And for more career-focused articles, check out our other posts.