Education · 1 of 5

The path

Short training, then years of learning the craft on real wrecks.

1. 1

   Get a full licence and a clean record

   Before you start

   Employers check your driving abstract closely, and their insurer sets the bar.

2. 2

   Upgrade your licence class

   1 to 2 months

   A Class 3 or Class D licence covers straight-body tow trucks. A Class 1 or Class A licence is needed for the long combinations used in heavy recovery. Add an air brake endorsement if the truck has air brakes.

3. 3

   Get certified where it is required

   Weeks

   Ontario requires a tow truck driver certificate, and companies need a tow operator certificate. The driver certificate needs approved training and a criminal record check. Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan also regulate towing.

4. 4

   Get hired and learn on the truck

   1 to 3 months

   Job Bank says on the job training is normal, sometimes with a vocational program of up to 3 months. You ride with an experienced operator first.

5. 5

   Specialize

   2 to 5 years

   Move up to flatbed work, then heavy recovery, or into running a yard.