What does a Tow Truck Driver do?

A Tow Truck Driver’s main purpose is to transport vehicles from one place to another, usually because the vehicle is damaged and cannot be operated. In many cases, a vehicle must be retrieved from the site of an accident or breakdown. Tow Truck Drivers are often tasked with performing repairs or reconnecting damaged parts at the scene of an accident.

After connecting a vehicle with the tow truck, a Tow Truck Driver is responsible for bringing it to a predetermined location, such as a service center. They will have direct communication with clients to understand why the vehicle must be towed and which repairs must be made first. Because of this, a Tow Truck Driver has influence over the client’s opinion of the company as a whole.

Tow Truck Driver skills and qualifications

A successful Tow Truck Driver will have many skills at their disposal during a tow. The qualifications needed to carry out daily responsibilities include:

• A basic understanding of mechanical systems
• Good time-management skills
• Attention to detail in high-pressure situations
• Effective communication skills
• Good physical dexterity and stamina
• Strong customer service skills
• The ability to follow instructions and procedures
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively

Tow Truck Driver experience requirements

Operating a tow truck can be dangerous work without the right knowledge, so experience is an important part of any Tow Truck Driver job description. Candidates should have basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics, preferably gained through hands-on work like automotive repair. This experience is useful when a Tow Truck Driver is asked to conduct repairs on vehicles prior to towing them.

Previous experience as a commercial driver is also a common job description feature. At least one year spent driving commercially—as a Truck Driver, for example—means a candidate may be more likely to understand road safety protocols. It may also make them more adept at using navigational tools, which can lead to more efficient transportation.

Tow Truck Driver education and training requirements

A Tow Truck Driver generally does not have any formal education requirements. However, an automotive program certificate from a technical college can indicate deeper knowledge of vehicle-related work. It’s also typical for employers to ask that candidates hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Depending on the state, Tow Truck Drivers may also be required to hold an additional tow truck driving certificate before they are eligible for hire. Proof of completing an advanced driving course counts as extra training and may give some applicants an edge over others. Regardless of their level of training, candidates should possess a clean driving record.

Job description samples for similar positions

This Tow Truck Driver job description may not have all the information you need. The following samples for similar positions may be what you’re looking for:

• Truck Driver
• Truck Dispatcher
• Transportation Manager
• Car Porter

Tow Truck Driver job description FAQs

What should you look for in a Tow Truck Driver resume?

Experience can be a strong indicator that a candidate is a good fit for the role. Successful candidates typically have prior experience as a Tow Truck Driver or another position that involves commercial driving. Vehicle-related jobs that involve customer service, such as those at a dealership, may also leave a candidate better prepared for the customer-facing parts of this role.

What does a Tow Truck Driver do between tows?

Following a tow, drivers typically spend their time filling out paperwork and readying the tow truck for the next call. Some companies ask that their drivers assist with repairs or other tasks. When creating a Tow Truck Operator job description, it may be helpful to specify any skill requirements needed for additional maintenance work.

What makes a good Tow Truck Driver?

To excel in the role, a Tow Truck Driver should be comfortable working in high-pressure environments, often around distressed clients. A dedication to the work is also important to ensure they have the motivation to continue learning and developing. To keep tows running without incident, a Tow Truck Driver should also have the focus to repeatedly follow proper procedures and make effective repairs.