Driving a tow truck is considered one of the most dangerous jobs. Tow truck drivers enter the sight of an accident to retrieve vehicles and machines from the most precarious positions. They have to deal with numerous risks in most situations. Since they have to prepare for vehicle retrieval at a moment’s notice, they don’t have time to brainstorm or learn any new tricks.
Hence, they only have time to demonstrate what they have trained for over the past few years. Many people believe that towing is an easy task. It is not. Along with using their driving skills to retrieve the vehicle, they also have to calculate the workloads’ limits and the forces that need to be applied.
In addition to this, the team has to work together to ensure the driver is on the right track. Communication is key. During the process of vehicle retrieval, the team should talk to the driver, describing weight numbers to ensure the lift is in sync.
Nevertheless, becoming a tow truck driver is a very adventurous job where you will not have a single boring day. This blog details the steps involved in becoming a tow truck driver.
If you are planning on becoming a tow truck driver, follow these steps:
Make Sure You Have A Clean Driving Record
The first prerequisite for driving a tow truck is that you are 18 years or older and you have a clean driving record. A clean record means that you have never been in an accident and there are no demerit points on your license for the past three years. In some provinces, if you don’t have any demerit points for the last two years, you are still eligible to drive a tow truck.
You have to ensure that you are clear-headed and composed. These are the two traits that are needed by a tow truck driver.
Application Process
To become a tow truck driver, you have to apply for a tow truck driving license. The process is fairly simple, all you have to do is visit your local license and permit issuing office and apply for the license.
You will have to prove your identity with a valid piece of government ID, pay a processing fee and fill out an application. The fee will vary based on the province you are living in.
Once the application process is complete, you will receive an examination date. If you pass your examinations, you will earn a Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) certificate.
The test involves a knowledge test and a road test. The knowledge test entails the demonstration of your knowledge of the abilities needed to complete a towing job. The road test, on the other hand, tests the practical components of tow truck driving.
Basic Vehicle Maintenance Task Training
Depending on the towing company you are planning to work with, you might have to undertake basic training for maintenance activities on automobiles. These activities might include jump-starting a vehicle, changing tires, unlocking doors, repairing batteries and some other tasks.
As a tow truck driver, there will be instances where you will be required to rescue a driver stranded with a faulty vehicle in the middle of the highway. Situations like these might require you to be a mechanic. Moreover, there is a chance that your tow truck might require some of these vehicle maintenance skills.
Taking a mandatory vehicle maintenance course will help you improve your technical skills. This will also add to the list of expertise you have that will help you during your interview phase.
Local Road Maps
To increase your chances of scoring the job and to make a significant difference to your work prospects, it is best that you learn about your local area and roadways. Towing companies usually prefer individuals who have a truck driving license and have sufficient knowledge to respond rapidly to diverse towing requests.
Apply To Towing Companies
Last but not least, start applying to towing companies. Companies like Action towing are always looking for new individuals who are proactive and know how to do their job.
Action Towing has been serving and earning the trust of the community of Edmonton for many years now. Being a reputable towing, recovery, and roadside assistance service company in Edmonton, we only rely on highly skilled tow truck drivers and the latest equipment. Contact us for more information.
