How Do I Start a Tow Truck in Missouri?

Starting a tow truck business in Missouri is a great way to make money and help people in need. But, there are certain steps you must take to ensure your business is compliant with state and local regulations. Missouri requires tow truck operators to have specific certifications and permits before they can begin working.

The first step to starting a tow truck business in Missouri is obtaining a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) from the Missouri Department of Revenue. This license must include endorsements for air brakes, hazardous materials, and tow vehicles. The license will cost around $80, but it is required by law before you can operate any kind of commercial vehicle.

In addition to the CDL, you must also obtain a Tow Truck Operator Permit from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). This permit will allow you to legally operate a tow truck on public highways.

You must provide proof of insurance coverage and pass an FBI background check in order to obtain this permit. The cost of this permit is around $150 per year.

Once you have obtained the proper licenses and permits, you can begin setting up your business. You will need to purchase or lease your tow trucks, hire drivers, obtain insurance coverage for your vehicles, register your business with the state, and find customers who need your services. You may also want to join a professional organization like the Missouri Tow Truck Association to get advice from other experienced drivers and access industry resources.

Starting a tow truck business in Missouri can be challenging but it can also be very rewarding. With the right certifications, permits, insurance coverage, equipment, staff, customers and support network in place; you should be ready to hit the road!

Conclusion:

Starting a tow truck business in Missouri requires several steps including getting a CDL license with endorsements for air brakes, hazardous materials and tow vehicles as well as obtaining an operator permit from MoDOT and registering your business with the state. In addition to these steps you will need to purchase or lease your trucks, hire drivers and obtain insurance coverage for them all before finding customers who need your services. Joining an organization like the Missouri Tow Truck Association can also be beneficial as they offer advice from experienced drivers as well as industry resources.

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James Gardner