Does a Tow Truck Need a DOT Number?

Towing companies have to comply with federal and state regulations, just like other commercial transport businesses. If a driver provides towing service without all the necessary permits and documentation, the business could end up paying huge fines. 

So, does a tow truck need a DOT number to be in compliance with these regulations?

This post will discuss DOT numbers and other regulations for tow truck operators to ensure your business can operate without incident. Plus, if you need a new USDOT number, you can reach out to Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings.

Comply With DOT Regulations

The requirements for obtaining a USDOT number vary from state to state. A USDOT number helps the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulate road use. It’s also how the authorities track whether drivers are staying within all state and federal regulations.

Here are some of the reasons a carrier may need to obtain a USDOT number:

• The vehicle transports more than 8 people (including the driver) in exchange for money.
• The vehicle transports more than 15 people (including the driver) for reasons that do not include exchanging money (like a large family).
• The vehicle’s gross weight is over 10,000 pounds.
• The vehicle transports hazardous materials as designated by the Secretary of Transportation.

Commercial vehicles that meet one criteria above and transport goods or people from one state to another or within the state must obtain a USDOT number.

Get the Required Driver Qualifications

By extension, tow truck drivers must observe the same federally regulated guidelines as all other commercial drivers. Some states also require tow truck drivers to apply for a commercial driver’s license, submit a drug test, and pass a background check. 

Employers should maintain current records on all drivers, including the following information for every driver in their employ:

• Proof of driver training 
• Driver’s license copies, whether the state requires a CDL or not
• Documentation of any road accidents or safety violations
• Drug test results, including tests during the hiring process and any random testing after they began working
• Driving logs showing the daily number of hours driven

Apply for a USDOT Number

The process of applying for a USDOT number can take a while. If you wait until the last minute to register with the FMCSA, you could end up losing money because you’ll likely have to postpone transport service.

Collect Necessary Information

Do you have all the necessary documents? Be sure before you start the application process. Taking time out to acquire additional documents delays things.

For example, you may need the following documents:

• Your Employer Identification Number (or Social Security Number)
• The address of your home office
• Contact information for your company, including phone number and email address

Choose the Correct Classification

Does a tow truck need a DOT number if they’re only towing cars? Yes, and what you plan to tow is just as important as where you intend to tow it. Go through the classifications carefully to ensure you get this detail right for the particular service you provide.

For example, the different cargo classifications may include:

• Passengers
• Farm supplies 
• Beverages
• General goods
• Hazardous materials

There are also different classifications for hazardous materials, such as:

• Flammable liquids
• Explosives
• Gasses 
• Combustibles 

If you aren’t sure if you need a hazardous materials endorsement for your tow truck operations, you can also reach out to Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings for some guidance. The last thing you want is to end up with unexpected fines because you applied for the wrong permit.

Additional Requirements for Tow Truck Drivers

Tow trucks have other qualification requirements outside of a DOT number. For example, each truck must have adequate lighting that makes it visible to other drivers on the road. The authorities also require sturdy equipment that ensures all transported cargo stays secure for the duration of the trip.

Depending on the cargo you intend to tow, you may have to obtain a special permit. For instance, you may need these permits to safely transport wide, heavy, or long loads, as they prove a driver has the training to navigate narrow or difficult areas without causing any damage to the cargo or surroundings.

Additionally, each tow truck company must have insurance for its entire fleet and all the drivers. It protects the company and the driver in case of bodily harm or property damage in an accident.

Apply for a USDOT Number With Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings

Does a tow truck need a DOT number if it isn’t catering to larger loads? If you need guidance figuring out who is exempted from a DOT number or how to begin the application process, Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings has all the information you need in one place.

Ask an online chat agent at Federal Motor Carrier Authority Online Filings more during business hours, or fill out the convenient online form to get in touch.