If you’re looking for a career that is always in demand, consider becoming a tow truck driver. This profession offers stability and opportunities to work all over the country. But it’s not just about driving around and picking up cars; there is a lot of training and preparation to become an expert tow truck driver.
This article will outline six steps on how to become a tow truck driver.
- Learn The Basics Of Towing And Driving A Tow Truck
Tow trucks are not like regular vehicles. They are heavier and have a different set of controls. You need to learn how to operate the tow truck before starting your training.
There are too many ways to learn how to drive a tow truck. You can take a course at a local community college or trade school. You can also find online courses that will teach you the basics of towing.
You should also learn about the different types of tow trucks. There are different models and brands of tow trucks. Some of them are explained below.
-Flatbed tow trucks: These are the most common type of tow trucks. They have a flatbed that can be used to transport vehicles.
-Rollback tow trucks: These have a bed that can be lowered to the ground. It allows the vehicle to be rolled onto the bed.
-Wheel-lift tow trucks: They have a device that can lift the wheels of a vehicle off the ground.
-Hook and chain tow trucks: These trucks have a hook and chain used to attach the vehicle to the tow truck.
- Take A Professional Tow Truck Driver Training Course
After a basic training program, you’ll need to complete a professional tow truck driver training course. It will give you the required skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful tow truck operator.
Most professional courses are around 40 hours long and include classroom and hands-on instruction. You will get plenty of practice driving in conditions, including bad weather.
- Get Experience Working With Different Types Of Trucks
A professional driver should have experience working with different types of tow trucks. It will allow them to handle any type of situation that they may come across.
Some professionals start out working for a company to get experience and learn the ropes. However, it is a great idea to get experience working with different types of tow trucks.
It will give you a more useful understanding of how they work and what to do in different situations. You can also get to know a lot by talking to other drivers.
- Understand The Laws And Regulations Governing The Towing Industry
You should know some of the essential laws and regulations, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), the Hours of Service (HOS) rules, and state-specific towing laws.
FMCSRs involve everything from vehicle maintenance to driver qualifications, while the HOS rules dictate how many hours a driver can be on duty.
You should also know about any oversize and overweight load regulations in your state and any permits or escorts required for specific loads. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for more information on towing laws and regulations.
Towing is a regulated industry, which means there are laws and rules you must follow to operate legally.
- Familiarize Yourself With Safe Towing Practices
If you want to know how to become a tow truck driver, it is crucial to learn how to properly and safely tow a vehicle. It includes understanding how to secure the vehicle onto the tow truck and how to drive while towing. Many resources can teach you these practices, so do your research.
- Stay Up-To-Date On The Latest Technologies And Tools Used In The Towing Industry
Some of the latest towing technologies are:
- GPS navigation systems
- Automatic vehicle location (AVL)
- Digital radio dispatch
- Advanced fleet management software
- Vehicle tracking devices
- Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS).
These technologies and tools can help rivers do their job more efficiently and effectively. By staying up-to-date on the latest towing technologies, you can provide better customer service.
It is also essential for tow truck drivers to be familiar with the different types of towing equipment. These are useful for different situations. For example, some tow trucks have a winch that can be used to pull vehicles out of ditches. Others have a boom to lift vehicles onto the truck’s bed.
Final Words
Tow trucks are an essential part of keeping the roads safe. If you’re interested in becoming a tow truck driver, follow the steps outlined in this article. You can become an expert and build a successful career with hard work and dedication.
