Driving a tow truck in Texas requires a special license. Depending on the type of tow truck you will be operating, you will need either a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
A Class A CDL is required for anyone operating a tow truck with more than 26,001 pounds of gross vehicle weight (GVW). This includes vehicles such as flatbeds, tilt beds and rollbacks. Additionally, if the GVW is more than 10,000 pounds and the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds, then you will need a Class A CDL.
A Class B CDL is required for any tow truck weighing between 26,001 and 10,000 pounds. This includes smaller vehicles such as wreckers and light-duty tow trucks.
In order to obtain your CDL, you must first pass a written knowledge test.
This test covers topics such as vehicle operation, safety regulations and traffic laws. You must also pass the state-administered road skills test in order to obtain your license. The road skills test includes an inspection of the vehicle’s brakes and lights as well as demonstrating your ability to safely drive the tow truck on public roads.
Once you have obtained your CDL, you must then register your tow truck with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You will need to provide proof of insurance and proof of registration in order to register your vehicle. Additionally, all drivers are required to comply with all state regulations regarding operation of commercial vehicles.
Conclusion: In order to drive a tow truck in Texas, you will need either a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License depending on the weight of the vehicle. In order to obtain this license, you must pass a written knowledge test and road skills test administered by the state. Once you have obtained your license and registered your vehicle with the DMV, you can begin operating your tow truck legally in Texas.
