The average Tow Truck Driver salary in California is $66,936 as of May 01, 2023. Salary ranges can vary depending on the city and factors like education, certifications, skills, years in profession.
If you’re planning to move to California, expect to earn up to $57,500 annually. You can earn up to $15 per hour after a few months of steady employment. The highest salary for a Tow Truck Driver in California is $82,256 per year. The lowest salary for a Tow Truck Driver in California is $55,572 per year.
Salaries estimates are based on 329 salaries submitted to Glassdoor. Towing rates range from $75 to $125 per tow plus mileage charges. Storage fees average around $20 per day.
In Los Angeles, the typical salary range is between $55,072 and $71,513.
Licensing Requirements
In California, a Tow Truck Driver needs a valid Class "A" or "B" Commercial Driver License (CDL) and Tow Truck Driver Certificate. To get a license, one must pass a pre-trip inspection and driving test. Seeking employment with a reputable tow truck company is recommended for gaining experience.
Pay Comparisons and Additional Data
The average salary for a Tow Truck Driver is $19.20 per hour in California. Heavy-duty tow truck drivers earn about $83,735 annually in Green River, Wyoming, and $77,207 yearly in Santa Clara, California.
The average hourly wage for tow truck drivers in the U.S. is $15 to $25.
Regional truck drivers average $75,877 annually, about $1,459 weekly, with per-mile pay ranging from $0.60 to $0.80. Local truckers often earn $72,000 annually.
Owning a tow truck business can net an annual profit of $30,000 to $100,000.
Specifics for California Tow Truck Drivers
Salary Range and Expectations
- Median salary: $37,514 per year ($21 per hour)
- Highest-paid drivers: Over $60k annually
- Entry-level range: $37,095 to $44,507 per year
- Senior-level salary: $60,622
Licensing Process
To become a licensed tow truck driver in California:
- Obtain a Class "A" or Class "B" CDL
- Earn a Tow Truck Driver Certificate
- Pass inspections and tests
General Salary Information
The national average hourly wage for tow truck drivers ranges from $12 to $30.
Heavy Duty Tow Truck Operator annual pay in the U.S. averages at $65,251.
A CDL truck driver in California earns approximately $83,623 per year, with a range of $68,640 to $93,427.