Registered tow truck operator

You must have a registered tow truck operator license if your business:

• Transports, impounds, or stores unauthorized vehicles.
• Disposes of abandoned vehicles.

Licensing requirements

To get a license, you must have:

• A $5,000 bond.
  • The name of the principal on the bond must be exactly the same as both the business owner name and the business firm name.
  • All bonds must be signed by the applicant and the attorney-in-fact for the bonding company.
  • Bonds are available through many insurance companies. It’s a good idea to research the cost of your bond before you apply for a license.
• A driver list, with the names and addresses of all employees who will drive a tow truck.
• Insurance
  • $100,000 liability for bodily injury or property damage.
  • $50,000 garage keepers and $50,000 on hook or cargo, for liability against damage to vehicles while they’re in your custody.
• A facilities and equipment inspection
  • You must arrange to have all your business facilities and equipment inspected by the Washington State Patrol before submitting your license application.
  • Submit the inspection report with your license application.
• The following completed forms:
  • Business License Application with all the necessary signatures.
  • Vehicle, Vessel, Vehicle Manufacturer, Registered Tow Truck Operator, or Wrecker Bond
  • Vehicle Transport/Disposal Addendum
    • Complete sections 1, 2, 5, and 6.
    • For help completing this form, see the Instructions for Vehicle Transport/Disposal Addendum.
  • Registered Tow Truck Operator Official Fees
  • Original Tow Truck-Business-Operator-Equipment Inspection Report Form. The inspecting officer from the Washington State Patrol will give you this form when your facilities and equipment are inspected.
  • If the business is a Profit Corporation, a Corporate Information form.
  • If the business is a Limited Liability Company, a Limited Liability Company Information form.

Tow truck requirements

Each tow truck must have a valid permit.

How to apply

Mail all the application materials listed above with a check or money order for the fees (payable to the Department of Revenue) to:

Note: Please let us know, in writing, if you have a change of address so we can reach you with information about your license.