Tow Truck Driver (Recession Proof)

There are generally no strict educational or training requirements to become a tow truck driver. An able-bodied individual with a high school diploma and a standard driver’s license can apply for positions at towing companies, salvage yards, or service stations. Most new employees receive on-the-job training from other drivers, accompanying them on jobs to learn about the various equipment and techniques involved with the job. Some companies offer up to 40 hours of classroom instruction for new drivers so they can become familiar with laws and corporate policies. Specialized certification is not typically required, though some individuals choose to take written exams offered by national associations to improve their credentials.

1. Obtain a valid driver’s license from the state that you plan to work in. At the very least, tow truck companies require that you have a valid driver’s license. Many companies will also want to review your driving record to make sure you are a safe driver.
2. Determine if you need a CDL for the tow truck job you are interested in. Although some tow truck companies do not require a CDL, many do. This requirement will depend on the size tow truck you will be driving while employed with the company.
3. Take and complete a CDL course. A CDL is a licensing program that permits the driving of commercial vehicles. A CDL exam will be broken into two parts: a driving and written exam. If your instructor determines you can adequately drive a commercial vehicle, you will be given your CDL. Find CDL courses in your area through online sites like CDL Course.
4. Look for tow truck driver jobs. You can find online career sites that advertise tow truck driving jobs in your area. For instance, you can review listings on Yahoo HotJobs. Check classifieds within your local newspaper as well for open positions.
5. Attend on-the-job training. Although experience may be preferred, most companies will train employees on the job. Training will involve hooking up the tow, emergency roadside assistance, using tow equipment and driving the truck with a tow.

All of your parking enforcement in your city have tow truckers on call. AAA makes deal with local tow truck drivers all of the time. Also it might be better to get a flat bed truck so you can pick up all kinds of cars. Most luxury cars are not set up for the old fashioned tow trucks…

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1. Expect to invest from $30,000 for a used tow truck to more than $65,000 for a new truck equipped with all the winches and platforms you need to tow any passenger car or small truck. Other initial expenses include about $2,500 to hire an attorney to file papers that incorporate your company and shield you from personal liability.
2. Get a commercial drivers license (CDL) from your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In addition, some states require tow truck drivers to carry another driving license specifically covering the industry. The DMV can give you instructions on how to obtain the special permits. Display the license in your truck so law enforcement officials can easily see it.
3. Obtain a tow truck license. License permit requirements and fees vary from state to state. The industry is highly regulated, and you need to have this license to receive any referral business from insurance companies, towing services like AAA and municipal accounts. Check with your Secretary of State to find out which department oversees the licensing process.
4. Make sure you carry enough insurance to cover your equipment and the vehicles that you tow. Find an insurance carrier that specializes in tow truck insurance to get the coverage you need. Consider securing limited liability and property coverage. Include storage insurance if you run an impound lot or other facility.
5. Invest in software designed for tow truck companies as you grow. Companies such as TowXchange and ProTow design programs that can help manage dispatch calls, provide online communications tools that can improve driver communications and process liens on towed vehicles. Interact directly with municipal customers through an online system that gives them access to your services.

Extra for set up of your own Company.

• Diversify your offerings by setting up relationships with car dealers and finance companies to provide repossession services.
• Be prepared to pay higher premiums for insurance if a majority of your towing business is repossessions. For example, industry leader Progressive Commercial will not provide insurance to your company if more than 24 percent of your business is repos. Weigh the pros and cons of repo work, considering the risks and the potential profits.