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Running a tow truck business in Florida requires a state license, which is regulated by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a tow truck license in Florida.
Types of Tow Truck Licenses in Florida
There are two types of tow truck licenses you can apply for in Florida:
Class A License
A Class A license is required if you want to operate a wrecker that weighs over 10,000 pounds or a combination of vehicles that weigh over 26,000 pounds.
Class B License
A Class B license is required if you want to operate a wrecker that weighs less than 10,000 pounds or a combination of vehicles that weigh less than 26,000 pounds.
Requirements for Getting a Tow Truck License in Florida
To get a tow truck license in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:
Business Registration
You need to register your business with the Florida Division of Corporations and obtain a tax identification number from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Insurance Coverage
You must have a minimum insurance coverage of $50,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $100,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons, and $25,000 for property damage.
Driver’s License
You and your drivers must have a valid Florida driver’s license to operate a tow truck.
Background Check
You and your drivers must pass a background check conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
Training Course
You and your drivers must complete a 12-hour training course approved by the FLHSMV.
Equipment Inspection
Your tow truck must pass an equipment inspection conducted by the FLHSMV.
How to Apply for a Tow Truck License in Florida
Once you have met all the requirements, you can apply for a tow truck license in Florida by following these steps:
Step 1: Complete Application Form
Fill out the application form for a tow truck license, which can be obtained from the FLHSMV website or the FLHSMV office.
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents
Submit the following supporting documents along with your application form:
- Proof of business registration
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Proof of driver’s license
- Proof of background check
- Proof of completion of training course
- Proof of equipment inspection
Step 3: Pay License Fee
Pay the license fee, which varies depending on the type of license you are applying for.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Wait for the FLHSMV to approve your application, which can take up to four weeks.
Renewing Your Tow Truck License in Florida
Your tow truck license in Florida must be renewed every two years. To renew your license, you must:
Step 1: Complete Renewal Application
Fill out the renewal application form, which can be obtained from the FLHSMV website or the FLHSMV office.
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents
Submit the following supporting documents along with your renewal application form:
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Proof of completion of continuing education course
Step 3: Pay Renewal Fee
Pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on the type of license you hold.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Wait for the FLHSMV to approve your renewal application, which can take up to four weeks.
Conclusion
Obtaining and renewing a tow truck license in Florida is a straightforward process as long as you meet the requirements set by the FLHSMV. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process.