Ohio towing license lookup: how to check and get a license
Ohio towing license lookup: who issues towing company licenses (PUCO), how to check one online, the license types, and 281 motor vehicle towing businesses by county.
Do towing companies need a license in Ohio?
| Who licenses them | Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) |
|---|---|
| License types | Certificate of public convenience and necessity (for-hire motor carrier) |
| When a license is required | State certificate required for any for-hire towing service; PUCO sets maximum towing and storage fees |
Ohio tow companies are regulated by PUCO as for-hire motor carriers and must display their certificate number and phone on both sides of the truck; PUCO rules cap towing and storage fees. Complaints go to PUCO.
How do you look up a towing company's license in Ohio?
- Ask the towing company for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the official PUCO license search run by PUCO.
- 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 PUCO.
What towing licenses does Ohio issue?
- Certificate of public convenience and necessity (for-hire motor carrier)
How do you get a towing license in Ohio?
Licenses are issued by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official PUCO source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many towing companies are there in Ohio?
The Census Bureau counted 281 motor vehicle towing businesses with employees in Ohio in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Cuyahoga County | 29 |
|---|---|
| Hamilton County | 26 |
| Franklin County | 25 |
| Stark County | 17 |
| Summit County | 16 |
| Butler County | 14 |
| Medina County | 13 |
| Lucas County | 13 |
What do Ohio homes mean for towing work?
The median home in Ohio was built in 1970, 33% of households rent and 74% of homes are single-family houses. 64% of homes heat with utility gas and 26% with electricity, and 2% with fuel oil.
How do you choose a towing company in Ohio?
- 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: Ohio licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.