Registering a Tow Truck in Virginia

For a smooth registration process, it’s helpful to start with a few terms.

Registration Options

The registration process will differ depending on whether you’ll use the tow truck for:

1. Private use
2. For-hire
3. Intrastate
4. Interstate

How to Register

To register a tow truck in Virginia, submit the following to DMV:

1. Proof of insurance coverage. See Tow Trucks and Wreckers Registration Options for requirements.
2. If you have a Virginia title and it’s in your possession: a completed Application for Registration. 
   Otherwise, a completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration.
3. If titling the vehicle, submit proof of address. See our Document Guide to determine which documents are acceptable.
4. If the tow truck is operated For-Hire:
   1. You will not be able to get vehicle registration unless DMV has issued you Operating Authority. To be issued Operating Authority, you must:
      1. Submit a completed For-Hire Intrastate Operating Authority Permit Application to the Motor Carrier Services department at DMV headquarters.
   2. Your insurance carrier must file a Form E certificate of insurance with DMV confirming liability coverage for the tow truck you are registering.
   3. If you are attempting to register your tow truck with an Operating Authority under a name different than the name(s) being used to register the tow truck, you must complete the For-Hire Vehicles Registration Request and Motor Carrier Motor Vehicle Lease Agreement and submit this form to the Motor Carrier Services department at DMV headquarters.
   4. Motor Carrier Services will let you know by the next business day whether you’ve received pre-authorization to complete the vehicle registration transaction, or if there are other items you must still provide.
5. Submit the appropriate fees.

Apply With Confidence

View Registration Options to compare the different ways of registering tow trucks.