What Do You Need to Drive a Tow Truck in Florida?

Driving a tow truck in Florida is a great way to earn money, but it does require a few steps before you can legally do so. To drive a tow truck in Florida, you must have the following:

Driver’s License: You must have a valid Florida driver’s license. If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to obtain one through the local DMV. The minimum age for getting a license is 18 years old and requires passing both written and driving tests.

Vehicle Registration: Before you can operate your tow truck in Florida, you’ll need to register it with the state. This includes submitting proof of insurance, payment of any registration fees, and providing information about the vehicle.

Tow Truck Certification: To drive a tow truck in Florida, you must also obtain towing certification from the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). This certification is required for all drivers of commercial vehicles that transport hazardous materials or carry more than 10 passengers. The certification process involves completing an approved course and passing an exam administered by DHSMV.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): If your tow truck has a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,000 pounds or will be used to transport hazardous materials, then you’ll need to obtain a CDL as well. It’s best to inquire with your local DMV about specific requirements for getting your CDL as they may vary across different counties in Florida.

Conclusion:

To drive a tow truck in Florida, you must have a valid driver’s license, register your vehicle with the state, obtain tow truck certification from DHSMV, and possibly get a Commercial Driver’s License if necessary. Following these steps will help ensure that you can legally operate your tow truck without running into any legal issues.

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Susan Delgado