Wrecker Inspections and Licensing Information for companies and drivers
This page is designated for the benefit and use of wrecker companies and wrecker drivers to operate within the city of Austin. The State of Texas requires licensing of tow companies, tow trucks, and tow operators. For information on state licensing please contact TDLR or visit https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/towing/towing.htm for more information.
Wrecker Inspections:
- Wrecker Inspections should occur during the dispatch vendors designated annual inspections.
- Should a Wrecker Inspection need to occur outside of the designated annual inspection, an appointment will need to be made with the APD Highway Enforcement Wrecker Unit Administrative Specialist at 512-974-5789, or email: wrecker.enforcement@austintexas.gov
- If a wrecker arrives without an appointment for inspection, it may be turned away if personnel is unavailable to conduct the inspection.
- A non-refundable inspection fee of $100 is required at the time of inspection. Inspection fees will be required for subsequent inspections of trucks that fail. Please ensure the truck is operating lawfully and with all safety equipment on board prior to the inspection to prevent failed inspections.
City of Austin Wrecker Licensing:
- The owner/agent responsible for the company will need to undergo and pass a background check.
- There is a $ fee for company license that must be paid upon application submission
City of Austin Wrecker Operator Licensing:
- Wrecker operators or tow truck drivers must pass a background check.
- Applicants must complete a Wrecker Driver Operator application and submit in person in order to verify identity of the applicant at 4201 Ed Bluestein Blvd (call 512-974-5789 with the Wrecker Administrative Assistant to coordinate drop off – do not arrive unannounced).
- There is a $15.00 fee for operator’s license that must be paid upon application submission
For questions or concerns, please call APD Wrecker Administrative Assistant 512-974-5789 or e-mail: wrecker.enforcement@austintexas.gov
Contracted Tow Vendor
The Austin Police Department has contracted with AutoReturn to manage the automated dispatch of wreckers. Please contact AutoReturn regarding inquires about automated dispatch for TIMS, crash, and police impound tows.
Additional Information Regarding Towing in Austin:
City of Austin Ordinance Chapter 13-6 –Vehicle Towing Services
Application for Wrecker License (business)