California towing license lookup: how to check and get a license
California towing license lookup: who issues towing company licenses (no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658)), how to check one online, the license types, and 1,284 motor vehicle towing businesses by county.
Do towing companies need a license in California?
| Who licenses them | no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658) |
|---|---|
| When a license is required | No general state tow-operator license found. Private-property tows need the property owner's or agent's written authorization, and fees can't exceed the local law-enforcement or CHP-approved rates; if you return before the car leaves the lot, the charge is capped at half the regular tow fee. |
Cities and counties set their own tow permits and rates, and CHP-dispatched tow operators must follow CHP's Tow Service Agreement and driver-training rules. Exact local permit names and any state driver-certificate rules for non-CHP tows were not verified; ask your city or county.
How do you look up a towing company's license in California?
- Ask the towing company for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the official no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658) license search run by no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658).
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the towing company about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658).
How do you get a towing license in California?
Licenses are issued by the no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official no state license; check city/county (CHP rotation tows use a CHP Tow Service Agreement; private-property tows are governed by Vehicle Code 22658) source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many towing companies are there in California?
The Census Bureau counted 1,284 motor vehicle towing businesses with employees in California in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Los Angeles County | 281 |
|---|---|
| Riverside County | 96 |
| San Diego County | 90 |
| San Bernardino County | 89 |
| Orange County | 82 |
| Sacramento County | 66 |
| Fresno County | 50 |
| Alameda County | 50 |
What do California homes mean for towing work?
The median home in California was built in 1976, 44% of households rent and 65% of homes are single-family houses. 62% of homes heat with utility gas and 29% with electricity.
How do you choose a towing company in California?
- Ask for the total price before the tow: hook-up fee, per-mile rate and any storage fees.
- Check that the company is licensed where you are; many cities license tow companies.
- Ask whether they'll take the car to the shop of your choice, not only their own lot.
- For a newer, AWD or low car, ask for a flatbed.
- Get a written receipt that shows the company's name, license number and charges.
Towing Companies in other states
Sources: California licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.