Top 11 Tow Truck Driver Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a tow truck driver’s job market because they show employers that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their role. Tow truck drivers who have certifications demonstrate to potential employers that they have gone through the necessary training and can handle the job safely and efficiently. Having certifications also shows employers that the driver is committed to their profession and has taken the time to learn more about it. Finally, having certifications may make a driver more attractive to potential employers, as it can provide them with peace of mind knowing that their employees are well-trained and knowledgeable.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for tow truck drivers and explain how they can help enhance a tow truck driver's career.

What are Tow Truck Driver Certifications?

Tow truck driver certification is a program that sets standards of safety, operational procedures, and customer service for tow truck drivers. It helps to ensure that tow truck drivers are knowledgeable and well-trained in their job duties. Tow truck driver certification can help by providing a standardized training program to ensure that all tow truck drivers have the necessary skills and knowledge needed to safely operate their vehicles and provide quality customer service. The certification also helps to protect both the public and the tow truck drivers by setting forth guidelines for how tows should be handled, such as when it is safe to move a vehicle or how long a vehicle should be stored before it is returned to its owner. Additionally, tow truck driver certification can help reduce the number of accidents involving tow trucks by providing drivers with the necessary safety information they need to properly operate their vehicles.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check the certification requirements of your state and local municipality when considering becoming a tow truck driver. Different states and municipalities may have different regulations regarding training, licensing, and insurance that you must meet in order to be certified.

Related: What does a Tow Truck Driver do?

Top 11 Tow Truck Driver Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Tow Truck Drivers today.

1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is a special type of license that allows individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles, such as buses and trucks. To obtain a CDL, applicants must pass both written and skills tests, as well as meet certain medical requirements. The process typically takes about two weeks, depending on the state in which the applicant resides.

To get a CDL, applicants must first obtain their regular driver’s license from their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They must then take an approved training course and pass the written and skills tests required by the DMV. The cost of taking these courses varies depending on the school and location, but generally ranges from $200 to $500. After passing the tests, applicants will receive their CDL permit, which is valid for up to one year. During this time they can practice driving with a qualified instructor or supervisor before taking the final road test.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will be issued their CDL license. The cost of obtaining a CDL varies by state but typically ranges from $50 to $100. In addition to this fee, there may also be additional fees associated with certain endorsements or specializations that are required for certain types of commercial vehicles.

2. Tow Truck Operator Certification

Tow Truck Operator Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure that tow truck operators have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate a tow truck. The certification program is administered by the National Association of Professional Towing Operators (NAPTO).

The certification process typically takes about 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam which covers topics such as vehicle safety, accident prevention, customer service, and basic operations. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in operating a tow truck by completing a practical test.

In order to get Tow Truck Operator Certification, individuals must first apply for certification through NAPTO. Applicants will need to provide proof of their experience in the industry as well as any relevant certifications they may have obtained. Once approved, applicants will be required to attend an 8-10 week course which covers all aspects of tow truck operation. After successfully completing the course, applicants will be required to take and pass the final exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of Tow Truck Operator Certification can vary depending on the individual’s experience level and the length of the course they take. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD depending on these factors.

3. Automotive Lift Safety Certification

Automotive Lift Safety Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that automotive lifts are safe and properly maintained. The certification is issued by an independent third-party organization, such as the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI).

The certification process involves a comprehensive inspection of the lift and its components. Inspectors look for any potential safety hazards or defects, such as worn out parts, improper installation, or missing safety features. If any issues are found, they must be corrected before the lift can be certified. The inspection process typically takes around two hours to complete.

Once all the necessary repairs have been made, the lift can then be tested for proper operation and safety compliance. This includes testing the lift’s weight capacity and ensuring it meets all applicable safety standards. After successful completion of these tests, the lift will receive its Automotive Lift Safety Certification.

The cost of Automotive Lift Safety Certification depends on the size and type of lift being certified, as well as any necessary repairs that need to be made in order to pass inspection. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$500 USD depending on these factors.

4. Emergency Vehicle Operation Certification

Emergency Vehicle Operation Certification (EVOC) is a certification program that trains and certifies emergency personnel to safely operate emergency vehicles. It covers topics such as vehicle dynamics, driving strategies, and legal issues related to operating an emergency vehicle. The certification is typically required for firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other first responders who use emergency vehicles in the course of their duties.

The length of time it takes to get EVOC certification varies depending on the individual's experience and training needs. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one day up to several weeks or months to complete the necessary training and receive certification.

To get EVOC certified, individuals must complete an approved course from a recognized provider. These courses are often offered through local fire departments or police academies, but they can also be found online or through private providers.

The cost of EVOC certification varies depending on the provider and type of course being taken. Generally speaking, most courses range in cost from $200-$500 USD.

5. Heavy Duty Towing and Recovery Certification

Heavy Duty Towing and Recovery Certification is a certification program that is designed to provide tow truck operators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to safely and efficiently perform heavy duty towing and recovery operations. This certification is typically required by employers in order to operate a tow truck.

The certification program typically consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and an exam. The classroom instruction covers topics such as vehicle safety, proper loading techniques, accident scene management, winching operations, air cushion recovery systems, and proper maintenance of equipment. Hands-on training involves the use of actual equipment for practice purposes.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the specific program you are taking. Generally speaking, most programs require at least 40 hours of instruction and hands-on training before taking the exam.

To get Heavy Duty Towing and Recovery Certification you must first find a program that offers it in your area. You can do this by searching online or contacting local tow truck companies or trade schools that offer this type of training. Once you have found a program that meets your needs you will need to register for the course and pay any associated fees.

The cost of Heavy Duty Towing and Recovery Certification varies depending on the specific program you are taking but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

6. Hazardous Materials Transportation Certification

Hazardous Materials Transportation Certification (HMTC) is a certification that enables individuals to transport hazardous materials in the United States. It is a federal requirement for those transporting hazardous materials and is regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

To obtain HMTC, an individual must complete an approved training program, pass an exam, and submit an application to PHMSA. The training program typically takes between two to five days to complete and covers topics such as hazard classification, packaging requirements, emergency response plans, placarding requirements, shipping papers, and more. The cost of the training varies depending on the provider but can range from $500-$1,000. After completing the training program and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants must submit their application along with proof of successful completion of the training program to PHMSA for review and approval. Once approved by PHMSA, applicants will receive their HMTC certification card which is valid for three years from the date of issuance.

The cost for obtaining HMTC certification includes both the cost of the training course as well as any applicable fees associated with submitting an application to PHMSA. Depending on the provider chosen for training courses, costs can range from $500-$1,000 plus any applicable fees associated with submitting an application to PHMSA which may include background check fees or other administrative costs.

7. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course is a comprehensive safety program designed to provide workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, reduce, and eliminate hazards in the construction industry. The course covers topics such as fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, hazard communication, and more. It is intended for entry-level workers in the construction industry who need basic safety training.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course typically takes two days to complete. It can be completed online or through an instructor-led classroom setting. The cost of the course will vary depending on the provider and location but typically ranges from $100-$200.

8. Professional Towing and Recovery Training School

Professional Towing and Recovery Training School is a program designed to teach individuals how to safely and effectively tow, recover, and transport vehicles. The program covers topics such as vehicle dynamics, proper use of tow trucks, safe loading and unloading procedures, accident scene management, and more. It typically takes between four to five days to complete the course, depending on the provider.

To get certified in Professional Towing and Recovery Training School you must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license. You will also need to pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to obtain your certification.

The cost of Professional Towing and Recovery Training School varies depending on the provider but can range from $500-$2000. This cost usually includes tuition fees, materials, equipment rentals, and any other necessary supplies.

9. Roadside Assistance Technician Certification

Roadside Assistance Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the Automotive Service Association (ASA). This certification is designed to help technicians become more proficient in providing roadside assistance services. It covers topics such as vehicle diagnostics, customer service, and safety protocols.

The certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on practical exam. The online course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and covers topics such as basic vehicle systems, customer service, safety protocols, and problem solving. After completing the online course, technicians must pass a hands-on practical exam administered by an ASA-approved instructor. This exam tests their knowledge of roadside assistance procedures and techniques.

To get certified, technicians must first register for the program through the ASA website. The cost of the program is $150 USD for members or $200 USD for non-members. Once registered, they will receive access to the online course materials and can begin studying for the exam. Upon successful completion of both parts of the certification process, technicians will be issued a Roadside Assistance Technician Certification card from ASA which they can use to demonstrate their expertise in this field.

Overall, obtaining Roadside Assistance Technician Certification requires approximately 8 hours of study time plus additional time for taking and passing the practical exam. The cost of this certification is $150-$200 depending on whether you are an ASA member or not.

10. Vehicle Extrication Training

Vehicle Extrication Training is a specialized type of training that teaches emergency responders how to safely and quickly remove people from vehicles that have been involved in an accident or other incident. It is often referred to as “jaws of life” training due to the use of hydraulic tools such as the Jaws of Life to access and remove victims from vehicles.

The length of time it takes to get Vehicle Extrication Training varies depending on the level of certification desired, but it typically takes between 40-80 hours of instruction. To get this type of training, most individuals must be employed by a fire department, law enforcement agency, or other emergency services organization. There are also some private organizations that offer Vehicle Extrication Training courses for individuals who are not affiliated with an emergency services organization.

The cost for Vehicle Extrication Training can vary significantly depending on the provider and the level of certification desired. Generally speaking, basic courses can range from $200-$500 while more advanced courses can cost up to $2,000 or more.

11. First Aid/CPR/AED Certification

First Aid/CPR/AED Certification is a certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to medical emergencies. This certification is designed to teach individuals how to recognize and address medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest, choking, shock, and other life-threatening conditions. It also teaches basic first aid techniques such as wound care and bandaging.

The length of time it takes to get First Aid/CPR/AED Certification varies depending on the provider. Generally, courses range from 4-8 hours in length and include both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to get First Aid/CPR/AED Certification, individuals must take an approved course from a certified provider. These courses can be found at local community centers or online through organizations such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

The cost of First Aid/CPR/AED Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $50-$100 per person for the course materials and instructor fees.

Do You Really Need a Tow Truck Driver Certificate?

Yes, you do need a tow truck driver certificate if you want to work as a tow truck driver. This certificate is the proof that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate a tow truck. Having this certificate also shows that you are serious about your profession and that you take your job seriously.

The certificate will prove to potential employers that you have been trained in operating a tow truck correctly and safely. It will also demonstrate to them that you have the knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding towing vehicles. In addition, having this certification can help increase your earning potential as employers often prefer certified drivers over those without certification.

Having a tow truck driver certificate is also beneficial for insurance purposes. Insurers typically offer lower rates for drivers who possess this certification because they know it means the driver has been properly trained in safe driving techniques. This can save drivers money on their premiums over time.

Overall, having a tow truck driver certificate is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career as a tow truck driver. It demonstrates professionalism and provides assurance of safety and compliance with local laws and regulations as well as insurance coverage requirements.

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FAQs About Tow Truck Driver Certifications

1. Do I need a certification to be a tow truck driver?

Answer: Yes, in most states you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license with a tow truck endorsement.

2. What is the process for obtaining a tow truck driver certification?

Answer: The process for obtaining your certification may vary depending on the state, but generally involves passing written and driving tests as well as completing an approved training program.

3. How much does it cost to get certified as a tow truck driver?

Answer: The cost of certification can vary depending on the state, but typically ranges from $50-$200.

4. How often do I need to renew my tow truck driver certification?

Answer: Generally, certifications must be renewed every two years or when your license expires.

5. Are there any special requirements for being certified as a tow truck driver?

Answer: Each state has its own set of requirements, however some common requirements include having a valid driver’s license and being at least 21 years old.