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 (must state business use), 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
- Select the 'Apply online' button.
- 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, call NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20.
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.