Apply for a tow truck drivers certificate

Introduction

If you want to drive a tow truck in NSW, you need a tow truck drivers certificate. Certificates are issued by NSW Fair Trading.

You can apply for a 1, 3 or 5-year certificate online with NSW Fair Trading.

Note: You must hold a tow truck drivers certificate before you can get a tow truck operator licence.

Under the Automatic Mutual Recognition (AMR) scheme, holders of certain interstate licences can work automatically in NSW but must notify the licence regulator of their intention to work.

a clear photo or scan of your unrestricted Australian driver licence (front and back)
one recent, passport-quality, colour photograph of your head and neck on a plain, light background with no hat or sunglasses
a National Police Check Certificate that is no older than 6 weeks at the time of application
a driving record that is no older than 6 weeks at the time of application. See Request a driving record for further information.

If you hold or have held a driver licence outside NSW or overseas within 3 years at the time of application, you need:

a statement of your driver licence record, and
a copy of your driving record issued by the relevant licensing authority of that jurisdiction for that period. This may be referred to as traffic history depending on the jurisdiction.

If you lived overseas within 10 years at the time of application, you need:

a National Police Check Certificate must be obtained from the relevant Police agency for the period you resided in that jurisdiction

Driving records and police checks must be in the English language and no older than 6 weeks at the time of the application.

If issued in a non-English language, you must provide a translated version. Translation must be completed via Multicultural NSW.

You will need to pay for this service. For information on on current fees visit Tow truck licensing fees.

Call NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20.

If your application is approved, your printed certificate will be sent to your postal address.

If your application is refused, NSW Fair Trading will tell you the reasons why. If you disagree you can apply for a review of their decision.

Note: If you make false or misleading statements or falsify any documentation, your application may be refused.