Do you need a CDL
for a tow truck?
Often not for a light-duty truck, often yes for a heavy one. The weight rating on the door decides where you start.
Reviewed September 2026.
Start with the weight rating
The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the most the truck is rated to weigh loaded, set by the manufacturer. It is on the label in the driver’s door jamb, and decoding the VIN shows its weight class. The rules below turn on the rating, not on what the truck weighs on a given day.
| Weight class | Rating | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1–2 | Up to 10,000 lb | Pickups and light trucks |
| Class 3 | 10,001–14,000 lb | USDOT number range begins |
| Class 4 | 14,001–16,000 lb | |
| Class 5 | 16,001–19,500 lb | |
| Class 6 | 19,501–26,000 lb | Top of the non-CDL range |
| Class 7 | 26,001–33,000 lb | CDL range begins |
| Class 8 | 33,001 lb and over | Heavy wreckers and rotators |
When a commercial driver’s license applies
Under federal rules, a CDL is generally needed to drive:
- Class B: a single vehicle rated 26,001 lb or more.
- Class A: a combination rated 26,001 lb or more in total, where the vehicle being towed is rated over 10,000 lb.
- Class C: smaller vehicles that carry 16 or more people or placarded hazardous materials, which rarely applies to towing.
Many light-duty rollbacks and wreckers are built on chassis rated under 26,001 lb, and heavy wreckers and rotators are not. Towing a heavy disabled vehicle can put the combination into the Class A range, and how that applies to tow trucks can depend on the state, so check with your state’s licensing agency before you rely on a Class B or on no CDL at all. Drivers with a CDL are also generally subject to drug and alcohol testing.
When a USDOT number applies
A business running commercial vehicles in interstate commerce generally needs a USDOT number once a vehicle, or a vehicle and what it tows, is rated 10,001 lb or more. Interstate commerce can include work that stays in one state but is part of a trip that crosses a state line. Many states require a USDOT number for commercial trucks that never leave the state, too.
A commercial motor vehicle brings other federal requirements with it, such as a DOT medical certificate for drivers, hours-of-service limits, and inspection and maintenance records. Some carriers also need interstate operating authority; FMCSA’s registration pages explain who does.
State and local rules come on top
Many states, counties and cities license tow companies and set rules for police-rotation, private-property and impound towing, including equipment, insurance, storage and rates. Rotation lists often set their own truck and driver requirements.
Where to check
- FMCSA registration: USDOT numbers, operating authority and whether you need them.
- FMCSA commercial driver’s licenses: the license classes and who needs one.
- Your state’s driver licensing agency, for CDLs and any state exceptions, and its motor carrier agency for intrastate rules.
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General information for tow truck owners, not legal, tax, insurance or financial advice. Rules vary by state, county and city; confirm what applies to you with the agency or a qualified professional.