A tow truck driver’s job entails operating and lifting heavy equipment. He or she also needs to be physically fit and capable of working in varying weather conditions. He or she must also have excellent eyesight and hearing. A driver with a valid license must have a clean driving history.
A tow truck driver must be at least 18 years of age. Many companies prefer drivers between 21 and 25 years old. Some towing companies may also require specific education. You may need a high school diploma or GED, and you’ll have to pass a physical examination. A tow truck driver also needs to be physically fit, as you may have to lift heavy objects and shovel snow to move a car.
To become a tow truck driver in Illinois, you must be at least 18 years old. You must also have a valid Illinois non-CDL license. You also need to be medically fit to operate a tow truck. If you’re not sure whether you qualify for a CDL, you can apply for a CLP and self-certify that you’re in good health. Finally, you must pass the written and skills tests required for the CDL.
How Much Do Local Tow Truck Drivers Make?
To become a tow truck driver, you must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and be knowledgeable about the tools required to do the job. You can take a one-month course to gain the skills needed to drive a tow truck. The training will teach you how to operate a tow truck and will also prepare you for a DMV test. Once you’ve passed the test, you can start finding clients and towing vehicles.
In Connecticut, tow truck drivers can make up to $53,563 per year, ranking fifth among all states. The average pay is about $26 an hour, and the pay starts from the time your boss calls you until you arrive home at the end of the day. However, you should keep in mind that tow truck driving is dangerous and can also involve long hours.
Those who specialize in hauling oversized loads earn more money. These drivers transport items and vehicles that exceed the legal dimensions set by federal regulations. Because of this, they must show extra skill and follow special routes to transport their loads. They also need to use escort teams and use additional insurance. However, the higher pay comes with additional responsibility.
What Does Tow Truck Drivers Do?
A tow truck driver’s main job is to haul cars. They do this by using specialized trucks and must log all of their routes. Most tow truck drivers work for car dealerships, private towing companies, and automobile service centers. However, they can also be employed by insurance companies.
Tow truck drivers are expected to have patience and a good sense of empathy. They will be dealing with people who are desperate for help. Often, these individuals are stressed and on a tight schedule. They may also be angry and upset. Tow truck drivers must have the patience and empathetic nature to deal with these situations and make sure that their customers are not hurt.
Tow truck drivers may also perform minor repairs on the vehicles they tow. For example, they may attempt to jump-start a dead battery or change a flat tire. They may even provide gas for the customer. Sometimes, towing truck drivers may also assist people who are locked out of their cars.
How Do I Become a Tow Truck Driver in CT?
If you’re interested in becoming a tow truck driver, you need to have a strong work ethic and be able to handle pressure. Tow truck drivers must be able to drive in extreme weather conditions and interact with clients on a daily basis. They also need to be able to maneuver difficult traffic patterns and have excellent eyesight.
First, you’ll need a driver’s license. A tow truck driver must have a standard state-issued driver’s license. They also need to have a clean driving record. If you don’t have a clean driving record, it can be difficult to get hired at a towing company.
There are several ways to obtain a commercial license, including completing in-person training and passing a written exam. This will give you a huge competitive edge when looking for a job. A license also makes you more versatile in the job market. Tow truck operators can also choose to pursue a certification program by the Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAC), which sets standards for tow truck drivers across the country. During the certification process, you will learn about customer service, safety and other essential skills.
Is Tow Truck Driving Hard?
Tow truck drivers have a challenging job. Not only do they have to travel long distances, but they must also navigate a variety of obstacles. Sometimes the weather can make towing difficult, including heavy rain, fog, and snow. In such circumstances, the truck driver is even more at risk. In addition, tow trucks must find a car’s location before they can begin to work.
Tow trucks are large, heavy vehicles. These drivers must maneuver around them while navigating busy roadways and poor road conditions. Whether in an urban area or a rural area, tow truck drivers face numerous hazards on the road. During a typical day, a tow truck driver can be at risk for injury and even death.
Fatigue is another major challenge for tow truck drivers. Oftentimes, tow trucks are called in the middle of the night. This means the drivers are on the road for several hours. Some of the areas in which these drivers work are poorly lit, which can be especially dangerous. Furthermore, many drivers must work long hours and face difficult situations such as repossessions.
Where Do Tow Truck Drivers Get Paid the Most?
There are several places to work as a tow truck driver. Some jobs are viewed as higher paying than others, such as police departments and car dealerships. Whether you’re a full-time employee or subcontract to a company, you’ll have to manage a large amount of paperwork. This includes tracking mileage and keeping up-to-date records on repairs and maintenance. You’ll also be required to submit timesheets and other payroll-related information.
Heavy duty tow truck drivers can earn as much as $97,500, or as little as $31,500. However, the majority of tow truck drivers earn between $45,500 and $70,000 a year. In Los Angeles, the average tow truck driver makes $41,639. Across the country, salaries range from $26,240 to $68,552 a year. The median salary is $40,260. The middle 57% make between $40,260 and $44,507, while the top 8% make over $62,230 per year.
In British Columbia, tow truck drivers make an average gross salary of $49,313, which is 1.5 times the national average. On the other hand, they make an average of $58,286 a year after taxes. On top of that, they often receive bonuses ranging from $1,274 to $6,444.
What is a Class C Tow Truck?
To operate a tow truck, the driver must have a Class C CDL license. This license is required for drivers under two thousand pounds, as well as for drivers of commercial trucks over two thousand pounds. This license is also required for drivers of trucks that transport hazardous materials.
When choosing a tow truck, be sure to look at the towing capacity. A typical Class C SUV will tow a mid-sized car up to 3,500 pounds. Remember to also check your province or state’s towing limits, which will affect the size of your vehicle. In addition, some cars are not designed for towing with a tow bar and will need a trailer to be hauled.
A Class C tow truck can tow cars and smaller RVs. However, cars and large SUVs will add significant weight to the Class C. The type of vehicle you tow will also affect the size and weight of your Class C RV. A full-size pickup truck will require a towing capacity of 4,000 to 5,000 pounds, while a sedan will need much less.
Learn More Here:
3.) Best Trucks