Apply for a tow truck operator licence

Introduction

To operate a tow truck business you must hold an operator licence. You can apply for your operator licence by lodging an application online with NSW Fair Trading.

There are 3 different types of work, and each requires a different licence:

• Category A (4 digit TT plates) – accident and breakdown/trade tow
• Category B (3 digit TT plates) – breakdown/trade tow
• Category B-Restricted (3 digit TT plates) – scrap work

Note: You do not need a tow truck operator licence if you are towing, salvaging or storing exempted vehicles or trailers.

Eligibility

You must already hold a tow truck drivers certificate.

If you do not hold a current tow truck drivers certificate, you will need to provide the details of at least one certified nominated driver.

What you need

Individual documents

• Documents must be no older than 6 weeks at the time of your application.
• A copy of photo ID for all authorised persons of the nominated business. For example, a driver licence or proof of age card (front and back), or passport.
• National Police Check Certificates for all authorised persons of the of the nominated business.
• If any officers of the nominated business lived overseas within 10 years at the time of application:
  • National Police Check Certificates for all applicable persons obtained from the relevant Police agency for the period resided in that jurisdiction.
• National Police Certificates must be provided in the English language. If issued in a non-English language, a translated version must be provided. Translation must be completed via Multicultural NSW.
   

Business documents

• All business types: Certificate of currency for public liability insurance for the nominated place of business.
• Company (Pty Ltd): Certificate of incorporation AND Latest annual company statement/extract which shows current directors’ and shareholders’ details.
• Sole Trader: Certificate Registration of Business Name.
• Company and Sole Trader documents available at ASIC.
   

Vehicle documents

• Certificate of currency for on hook insurance for each vehicle to be operated under licence, or a completed exemption form for licences operating solely under clause 10 of the Regulation.
• A copy of current vehicle registration papers, or on hold receipts/copy of lease for tow trucks not owned by applicant (if applicable) – also required when the lease is renewed for a further term.
• A list of exempt vehicles is available on the NSW Fair Trading website.
   

Holding Yard documents (Category A towing work)

• Certificate of currency for public liability insurance for your holding yard(s).
• Proof of ownership of the holding yard. This may include:
  • a copy of current rates notice if the applicant owns the property, or
  • a valid commercial lease agreement between the owner of the property and the applicant, or
  • a copy of a current rates notice for the property combined with a signed and dated letter of permission from the owner of the property, confirming that the applicant has permission to use the property as a tow truck holding yard for the storage of damaged vehicles.
    Note: A property lease is not required again until it is renewed for a further term.
• Clear colour photographs of the nominated holding yard(s) showing:
  • perimeter fencing showing that it is permanently fixed, undamaged and 2m in height
  • view of the premises from the road/street
  • view of the adjoining premises
  • all vehicular and pedestrian access, including locks
  • any other access points - floodlighting (for external yards)
  • vehicle storage area/space
  • security systems including sensors, cameras and alarms.

How to apply

1. Select the 'Apply online' button.
2. Follow the prompts to apply for a licence.

Once your completed form, supporting documentation and payment are received, your application will be assessed. This can take from 10 to 12 weeks.

If you're unable to apply online:

1. Download and complete the form Application for a tow truck operator licence – PDF.
2. Submit your application with payment to towtrucks@customerservice.nsw.gov.au 

More information

• If your application is approved you will be sent your licence.
• If your application is refused, you'll be notified in writing. You can apply for a review if you disagree with the decision.