Tow truck jobs are posted on job boards, through towing companies directly, and via staffing agencies that specialize in transportation work

The fastest way to find tow truck work near you is to search job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Craigslist using the terms "tow truck driver," "towing operator," or "roadside information driver" with your city or zip code. Most towing companies also post openings on their own websites, and many hire year-round because the work is steady — breakdowns and accidents happen every day. Staffing agencies that focus on transportation and logistics often have tow truck positions available and can place you quickly if you already have your commercial driver's license (CDL).

The job market for tow truck operators is strong because demand is consistent and turnover is high. Companies need drivers for heavy-duty towing, light-duty towing (cars and small trucks), and roadside information roles. Pay varies by region and company size, but most positions offer hourly wages plus commission or per-call bonuses. Some companies provide vehicle and equipment; others require you to own or lease your own rig.

Key Takeaways

  • Job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn let you filter by location and see multiple companies at once, while company websites often post openings before they appear elsewhere.
  • You will need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) for most tow truck positions, though some light-duty roles may only require a standard driver's license.
  • Staffing agencies that work with transportation companies can move you through hiring faster if you already have your CDL and a clean driving record.
  • Towing companies often hire year-round and offer per-call pay, hourly wages, or commission structures, so compare offers before accepting a position.

Where towing companies post job openings

Large towing chains like Roadway information, Wrecker Service, and AAA-affiliated operators post openings on Indeed, LinkedIn, and their own career pages. Regional and independent towing companies — which make up the majority of the industry — often post only on their own websites or Facebook pages, so searching "[your city] towing company jobs" or "[your city] tow truck driver" will surface local operators you might not find on national boards.

Call towing companies in your area directly and ask about openings. Many small and mid-sized operations hire through word-of-mouth and phone inquiries before posting online. Ask to speak with the dispatcher or operations manager, not just the front desk. Have your CDL number, driving record summary, and availability ready when you call.

Staffing agencies that specialize in transportation, logistics, and heavy equipment work often have tow truck positions. Search for "transportation staffing agencies near me" or "logistics temp agencies" and call to ask whether they place tow truck drivers. These agencies can move quickly if you meet their requirements and can start soon.

What employers look for on your resume and process

Your commercial driver's license class matters. Class A CDL holders can operate the heaviest rigs and command higher pay. Class B CDL holders can drive medium-duty trucks. Some light-duty towing positions accept drivers with a standard license, but these are less common and pay less. List your CDL class, any endorsements (air brake, hazmat), and the expiration date prominently.

Driving history is the second filter. Most towing companies will not hire drivers with more than one at-fault accident in the past three years, multiple speeding tickets, or a DUI. Some companies use third-party background check services; others pull your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) directly from your state's DMV. Be honest about your record when asked — lying disqualifies you when ready.

Experience with heavy equipment, customer service, and roadside situations matters. If you have worked in towing, roadside information, heavy hauling, or recovery, list it with specific examples: "Recovered 15+ vehicles per week from ditches and accident scenes" or "Operated rotator and boom equipment on Class 8 trucks." If you are new to towing, highlight related experience like truck driving, equipment operation, or emergency response work.

How to prepare your process materials

Have your CDL, proof of insurance, and driving record ready before you explore. Most companies will ask for a copy of your CDL and will run a background check and MVR pull. Some require a medical certificate (DOT physical) before hire; others conduct the physical after a conditional offer. Know which applies to the position you are pursuing.

Write a cover letter or process note that shows you understand the job. Towing is physical, on-call, and sometimes dangerous. Employers want to see that you know this and are prepared for it. A line like "I am comfortable working nights and weekends and have experience operating heavy equipment in difficult conditions" tells them you are realistic about the role.

If you do not yet have your CDL, research the timeline and cost in your state. CDL training programs typically take four to eight weeks and cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Some towing companies will hire you as a helper or apprentice while you get your CDL, though this is less common. Check with local companies about whether they offer this path.

Understanding pay structures and benefits

Tow truck pay varies by company model. Some pay hourly wages (typically $18 to $28 per hour depending on region and experience) plus per-call bonuses ($15 to $50 per call). Others use commission-only models where you earn a percentage of each tow (usually 20 to 40 percent of the customer charge). A few offer a combination: base hourly rate plus commission on calls over a threshold.

On-call and standby work is common in towing. You may be required to be available during certain hours or on a rotation, and you may be paid a standby rate (lower than active work) or paid only when you are actually dispatched. Ask during the interview whether the position is full-time, part-time, on-call, or shift-based, and what the pay structure covers.

Benefits vary widely. Large companies often offer health insurance, workers' compensation, and vehicle maintenance. Small operators may offer only workers' compensation (which is legally required). Ask about fuel reimbursement, equipment provision, uniform allowances, and whether the company covers vehicle damage or liability. These details affect your actual take-home pay.

Red flags to watch for when evaluating job postings

Avoid postings that promise unrealistic pay without explaining the structure. A posting that says "Make $100,000 a year!" without mentioning commission, on-call hours, or vehicle costs is likely misleading. Legitimate postings explain whether pay is hourly, per-call, or commission and give a realistic range.

Be cautious of companies that require you to pay upfront fees for training, certification, or equipment. Legitimate towing companies do not charge you to work for them. If a posting asks for money before you start, it is a scam.

Check whether the company requires you to own or lease your own tow truck. Some do; some provide vehicles. If they require you to own the rig, factor in the cost of purchase, maintenance, insurance, and fuel. This can be $500 to $2,000 per month depending on the truck and your area. Make sure the pay structure supports this cost.

how the process works and what to expect in the hiring process

Most towing companies hire quickly — often within one to two weeks from process to start date. The typical process is: online or phone process, phone screening with the dispatcher or operations manager, in-person interview, background check and MVR pull, and conditional offer pending the results. Some companies skip the formal interview and hire based on phone screening and references.

During the interview, be ready to discuss your availability, your experience with heavy equipment, your comfort level with on-call work, and your safety practices. Towing companies care about whether you can stay calm under pressure, follow safety protocols, and communicate clearly with dispatch and customers. Bring your CDL, proof of insurance, and references.

After you are hired, expect a brief orientation covering dispatch procedures, safety equipment, customer service expectations, and company-specific policies. Many companies require you to ride along with an experienced driver for one to three shifts before you work solo. Use this time to learn the local area, the equipment, and the company's standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a CDL to work as a tow truck driver?

Most tow truck positions require a Class A or Class B CDL, depending on the weight of the vehicles you will tow. Some light-duty towing roles (towing cars only) may accept drivers with a standard license, but these are rare and pay less. Check the job posting or call the company to confirm the CDL requirement for the specific position.

How much does a tow truck driver make?

Pay varies by region, company, and experience. Hourly rates typically range from $18 to $28 per hour, often with per-call bonuses of $15 to $50. Commission-based positions may pay 20 to 40 percent of the tow charge. On-call standby rates are usually lower. Ask the company for a detailed breakdown of how pay is calculated before accepting an offer.

Can I find tow truck work if I have a recent accident or ticket on my record?

Most towing companies will not hire drivers with more than one at-fault accident in the past three years or multiple traffic violations. A single speeding ticket or minor accident may not disqualify you, but a DUI or reckless driving conviction will. Be honest about your record when asked — companies run background checks and will find out anyway.

What if I do not have a CDL yet?

You can pursue a CDL through a training program in your state, which typically takes four to eight weeks and costs $3,000 to $7,000. Some towing companies hire apprentices or helpers without a CDL and allow you to work toward one, though this is uncommon. Check with local companies about whether they offer this option before enrolling in a program.

Are tow truck jobs available year-round?

Yes. Towing demand is steady throughout the year because breakdowns, accidents, and roadside emergencies happen constantly. Winter may bring more calls in cold climates due to weather-related breakdowns. Most towing companies hire year-round and often have openings available.