Tow Truck Training & Certification
Whether you want tow truck training and certification in as little as two hours with our online training or a more robust, customizable option like you get with our DIY training kits or on-site training, we can help you get the tow truck safety training you want in the way you want it and at a price you can afford.
What are my options for tow truck driver training?
What’s in the Tow Truck Training Course?
Our Tow Truck training course is regulation-compliant, and our online version fulfills classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on anatomy and pre-shift inspections, safe operations, common hazards, and more.
During this training, we will be taking a look at the basic anatomy and components of tow trucks. Additionally, we will focus on components that must be examined during pre-shift inspections. Next, we will cover safe tow truck operating procedures. This will cover principles such as how to safely use your tow truck, as well as safeguards so you may remain safe within the worksite.
Lastly, we will talk about common hazards that lead to injuries or fatalities and how to prevent, avoid, or minimize them. To reinforce the importance of following safe operations and identifying these hazards beforehand, we will provide case studies based on true accident profiles.
This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. In addition to the written exam, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam as required by CSA.
Though you will still need to familiarize yourself with all other applicable federal, state, and local standards, this training encompasses the following laws and regulations:
- Encompasses these Canada Standards
-
Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 – Framework for pollution prevention
-
Canada Labour Code, Part II – Occupational Health and Safety. Sec. 124-125. “Duties of Employers.”
-
Canada Labour Code, Part II – Occupational Health and Safety. Sec. 126. “Duties of Employees.”
-
CSA Standard Z94.2.02 – Hearing Protection Devices (Performance Selection, Care and Use)
-
Transport Canada – Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations
Why do I need tow truck operator training?
In line with regulations, anyone who operates heavy equipment must receive training prior to operating on their own. Requirements for refresher training related to forklifts or other processes are very specific. Most other equipment doesn’t have such specific requirements, but it’s wise to follow the same guidelines.
When it comes to refresher training, the standards in some instances (like forklifts) are very specific: operators must be re-evaluated every three years to see if they are still competent to operate the equipment. Best practices say to apply this same rule to all types of equipment. A so-called “free-pass” cannot be awarded based on experience, age, or time on the job. The extent of the evaluation is to be determined by the employer but should include a written and practical examination that proves continued competency.
-
Did You Know?
-
The first tow truck was invented in 1916 by Ernest W. Holmes Sr. of Chattanooga, Tennessee (Source: International Towing Museum)
-
The death rate in the towing industry is 15 times higher than the national average for all other private industries (Source: CDC).
-
In the News
-
Auburn tow truck driver charged with multiple felonies following Lewiston crash
-
‘It’s unbelievable’: Lawsuit filed after tow truck flips car into traffic with driver inside
-
Safety Videos
-
Tow truck struck while loading car in Fairview Park
-
Caught on camera: Tow truck driver just misses getting hit by SUV
-
Blog Posts
COMING SOON
Browse our other available trainings:
-
Canadian Training Kits
in English ONLY -
Canadian Online Training
in English ONLY
Can a tow truck tow your car with you in it?
Tow truck operators should not tow a vehicle while the occupants are inside. Towing a vehicle with the passenger still inside is dangerous and could result in serious injury or death should an accident occur.
How does a tow truck work?
A tow truck uses a set of towing mechanisms including chains, cables, hooks, and winches to raise a disabled vehicle fully or partially off the ground and onto the tow truck’s body (depending on the make and model of the tow truck and the vehicle). This allows the tow truck operator to freely move the disabled vehicle from one location to another.
What is the difference between a tow truck and a wrecker?
There is no difference between a tow truck and a wrecker. Some companies may use the terms separately to refer to different work responsibilities, though this depends upon company-specific lingo.
How do I become a tow truck driver?
You will need to get a commercial driver’s license with classification appropriate to the tow truck you will be using. This includes receiving the proper training and passing necessary written and practical exams. There may be additional requirements depending on local laws and company policies.
Can a tow truck damage your car?
A tow truck could cause additional damage to the vehicle it is towing. However, if the tow truck driver uses the correct towing mechanisms, appropriately attaches all securing devices, drives carefully and monitors the vehicle while driving, and follows other basic safe operating procedures, they can reduce the chances for causing additional damage.
What tow truck is the best tow truck to buy?
The best tow truck is the one that suits your towing needs. Not all tow trucks are the same, and some are rated to handle heavier loads than others. Consult the manufacturer when selecting a tow truck and make sure it will meet your work requirements.
How much can a tow truck carry?
The amount of weight a tow truck can carry depends upon its gross vehicle weight rating. This is the maximum amount of weight the manufacturer has determined the tow truck can safely carry without reasonable risk of mechanical failure.
Can a tow truck driver give you a ride in their cab?
Short answer: Maybe.
Long answer: Whether a tow truck driver can give you a ride in their cab depends on several factors. First, company policies may prohibit giving rides to avoid liability issues. Second, there must be enough seats and seatbelts to accommodate all cab occupants. Third, if there are small children or babies, the cab must have appropriate seating accommodations. If these conditions are appropriately met, then the driver can give you a ride. Otherwise, you will need some other transportation.
