Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Tow Truck?

If you’re interested in becoming a tow truck driver, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: Do you need a CDL to drive a tow truck?

The answer depends on the size of the tow truck, the weight of the vehicle being towed, and the type of towing work you perform.

Some tow truck drivers can legally operate with a regular driver’s license, while others must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). Understanding these requirements is essential before starting a career in tow truck driving.

Do You Need a CDL to Drive a Tow Truck?

The short answer is: sometimes.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), whether a CDL is required depends on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the tow truck and the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the truck and vehicle being towed.

In general:

• Small light-duty tow trucks may not require a CDL.
• Medium-duty tow trucks may require a Class B CDL.
• Heavy-duty tow trucks often require a Class A CDL.

Can I Drive a Tow Truck With a Regular License?

One of the most common questions is: Can I drive a tow truck with a regular license?

Yes, in many cases you can.

If you’re operating a light-duty tow truck that falls below federal CDL weight thresholds, a standard driver’s license may be sufficient. Many roadside assistance companies and local towing services use lighter trucks that can legally be operated without a CDL.

However, state laws vary, and some employers may still prefer or require a CDL even when it isn’t legally required.

When Is a CDL Required for Tow Truck Driving?

FMCSA guidance provides several scenarios where a CDL is necessary.

Class A CDL

You’ll generally need a Class A CDL if:

• The tow truck and towed vehicle have a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, and
• The vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds GVWR.

This is common in heavy-duty towing operations involving:

• Semi-trucks
• Tractor-trailers
• Buses
• Construction equipment

Class B CDL

You’ll generally need a Class B CDL if:

• The tow truck itself has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, and
• The towed vehicle is 10,000 pounds GVWR or less.

Many medium-duty wreckers fall into this category.

What Types of Tow Truck Drivers Need a CDL?

Not all towing jobs are the same.

Light-Duty Tow Truck Driver

Typically tows:

• Passenger cars
• SUVs
• Pickup trucks
• Small vans

In many cases, drivers can operate these trucks with a regular license, depending on vehicle weight.

Medium-Duty Tow Truck Driver

Typically tows:

• Box trucks
• Utility vehicles
• Delivery trucks

A Class B CDL may be required depending on the truck’s GVWR.

Heavy-Duty Tow Truck Driver

Typically tows:

• Semi-trucks
• Motorcoaches
• Large commercial vehicles
• Construction equipment

Heavy-duty tow truck driving usually requires a Class A CDL.

How to Become a Tow Truck Driver

If you’re wondering how to become a tow truck driver, the process is relatively straightforward.

1. Meet Basic Requirements

Most employers require:

• A valid driver’s license
• Clean driving record
• Minimum age requirement (often 18–21)
• Ability to pass background and drug screenings

2. Determine Whether You Need a CDL

The type of towing you plan to perform will determine whether you need:

• No CDL
• Class B CDL
• Class A CDL

3. Complete CDL Training (If Required)

If your target position requires a CDL, you’ll need to:

• Obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
• Complete required training
• Pass knowledge and skills tests
• Obtain your CDL through your state’s licensing agency

4. Learn Towing Operations

Tow truck drivers must understand:

• Vehicle recovery
• Load securement
• Safety procedures
• Winch operation
• Traffic incident management

Many employers provide on-the-job training for new drivers.

Do Tow Truck Drivers Need Special Endorsements?

Sometimes.

According to FMCSA guidance, endorsement requirements depend on the type of towing being performed. For emergency “first moves” following a breakdown or accident, special endorsements are generally not required. However, additional endorsements may be needed for certain subsequent moves involving commercial vehicles.

Always verify requirements with your state licensing agency and employer.

Is Tow Truck Driving a Good Career?

Tow truck driving can be a rewarding career for individuals who enjoy helping motorists and working independently.

Benefits include:

• Steady demand
• Variety of work
• Opportunities for overtime
• Career advancement into heavy-duty towing
• Potential to earn a CDL and increase income

Heavy-duty tow truck operators often earn higher wages because of the specialized skills and licensing requirements involved.

CDL Advantages for Tow Truck Drivers

Even if a CDL isn’t required for your first towing job, earning one can provide significant advantages.

A CDL may allow you to:

• Operate larger tow trucks
• Qualify for heavy-duty towing positions
• Increase earning potential
• Access more job opportunities
• Build experience for other trucking careers

Many tow truck drivers eventually use their CDL experience to move into commercial trucking, recovery services, or fleet operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a CDL to drive a tow truck?

Not always. CDL requirements depend on the weight of the tow truck and the vehicle being towed. Light-duty tow trucks often do not require a CDL, while medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks frequently do.

Can I drive a tow truck with a regular license?

Yes, many light-duty tow trucks can be operated with a standard driver’s license if they fall below CDL weight thresholds.

What CDL do I need for heavy-duty towing?

Most heavy-duty towing operations require a Class A CDL because of the combined weight of the tow truck and the vehicle being towed.

How do I become a tow truck driver?

Start by obtaining a valid driver’s license, meeting employer requirements, determining whether a CDL is needed, and gaining towing-specific training and experience.