You need to have a current commercial driver’s license (CDL) in order to drive a tow truck in Arizona. Any vehicle weighing more than 26,001 pounds, including the weight of the towed vehicle, needs this license. Additionally, you need to get an air brake endorsement for your CDL if you’re driving a tow truck with air brakes.
Drivers of tow trucks must receive a towing endorsement in Arizona as well. You can get this endorsement by completing a written exam on towing regulations and safety practices. It is crucial to remember that if you are driving a tow truck for a public utility or a private property owner, a towing endorsement is not necessary.
Arizona has special laws and rules controlling the operation of tow trucks in addition to the license requirements. For instance, tow vehicles are required to include specific safety measures like warning lights and reflective decals. When towing a vehicle, tow truck drivers must also adhere to specified protocols, such as properly tying the vehicle to the tow truck and balancing the weight.
In locations with heavy traffic or lots of accidents, owning a tow truck can be a lucrative business. However, it’s crucial to take into account the costs of getting a tow truck, keeping it in good working order, and getting the required permits and insurance. Before making an investment in a tow truck, as with any business, it’s critical to do your homework and draft a strong business plan.
Any vehicle that is used to tow or transfer other automobiles is referred to as a tow truck. This covers wheel-lift tow trucks, flatbed tow vehicles, and wrecker tow trucks. No matter the kind of tow truck, it’s critical to make sure it’s well maintained and furnished with the required safety measures.
In Arizona, a tow truck firm is not allowed to keep your automobile on their lot indefinitely. A car must be released to the owner or their designated representative within two hours of the towing and storage fees being paid, according to Arizona law. If the car is not picked up within 21 days, the towing business may sell it at an open auction.
In conclusion, a CDL with a towing endorsement is necessary to operate a tow truck in Arizona. Arizona also has special rules and legislation governing the use of tow trucks, such as security standards and towing protocols. The tow truck industry can be lucrative, but before making an investment it’s critical to weigh the expenses and requirements. Additionally, tow trucks in Arizona have a set amount of time in which they must release your car after holding it.