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New Mexico does not require a state-level tow truck operator license. New Mexico does not require a state-level tow truck operator license. A general business license is sufficient.
Tow Truck License
Total cost: N/A
Some details on this page are not yet confirmed against an official source. See sources below or contact the licensing board to verify.
No
State Licensed
None
License Type
Not Required
Background Check
N/A
Min Insurance
N/A
Training Hours
N/A
Operator Fee
New Mexico does not require a state tow truck operator license. However, you still need the correct class of driver's license for the vehicle you operate:
CDL Class A or B required for GVWR > 26,000 lbs per federal FMCSA regulations
New Mexico does not require a state-level tow truck operator license.
While no state tow truck license is required, you should still:
Register your towing business with New Mexico and your local municipality. A general business license is required.
Ensure you have a valid driver's license. A CDL is required for heavy-duty tow trucks over 26,000 lbs GVWR.
Obtain commercial auto insurance, general liability, and garage keeper's liability coverage.
Ensure your tow truck meets all New Mexico safety and equipment requirements.
Contact your city or county for any local towing permits, franchise agreements, or additional regulations.
Licensing fees (excludes insurance premiums & equipment)
Application Fee
N/A
License Fee
N/A
Renewal Fee
N/A
Licensing & Regulation
VerifiedNo
State Licensed
None
License Type
N/A
License Title
This state does not require a state-level tow truck license. A general business license is sufficient to operate.
Training & Certification
VerifiedNot Required
State Training
—
Training Hours
—
WreckMaster Cert
Training Details
No state-mandated training. Industry certifications like WreckMaster recommended
WreckMaster certification is a widely recognized industry standard for tow operators. Even in states without mandatory training, WreckMaster and TRAA (Towing and Recovery Association of America) certifications are recommended for professional development and may satisfy insurance requirements.
Browse Tow Truck Operator study materials on Amazon →(affiliate link)
Requirement
VerifiedMinimum Age
18 years
Background Check
Not Required
Driving Record Check
Not Required
Drug Test
Not Required
Valid Driver's License
Required
CDL for Heavy-Duty
Required (GVWR > 26,000 lbs)
CDL Class A or B required for GVWR > 26,000 lbs per federal FMCSA regulations
Not sure if you need a tow truck operator license? Check whether your state requires one.
Coverage Type
VerifiedWorkers' Compensation
Not Required
Insurance requirements apply to tow truck operators and companies. General liability covers third-party bodily injury and property damage. Garage keeper's liability covers vehicles in your care, custody, or control at your storage facility. On-hook coverage protects vehicles while being towed.
Vehicle Standards & Equipment
VerifiedNot Required
Vehicle Inspection
Not Required
Vehicle Markings
Equipment Requirements
Federal DOT equipment standards apply
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Rate Regulation
VerifiedUnregulated
Nonconsent Rates
Rate Details
No statewide nonconsent rate regulation.
Nonconsent towing refers to tows ordered by law enforcement (police-ordered tows, accident tows, abandoned vehicle tows). Many states regulate the maximum rates that can be charged for these services to protect consumers. Consent towing (requested by the vehicle owner) is typically not rate-regulated.
New Mexico has no state-level tow truck licensing. Only a general business license is required.
New Mexico does not require a state-level tow truck operator license. A general business license is sufficient.
CDL is required for towing vehicles with GVWR over 26,000 lbs per federal FMCSA regulations.
Commercial auto insurance is strongly recommended even without state licensing requirements.
Tow Truck Operator requirements in nearby states
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How does New Mexico compare to other states for tow truck operator? See the full comparison →
Calculate the return on investment for your tow truck operator license →
Explore requirements for other professional licenses in New Mexico.
Tow Truck Operator Schools in New Mexico
Compare approved training programs, costs, and requirements.
Training guides and resources for tow truck operators and WreckMaster certification.
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Tow Truck Operator requirements in New Mexico verified against New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, March 2026.
Accessed 2026-03-16
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New Mexico does not require a state-level tow truck license. All licensing is managed through the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.
Requirements vary by state and municipality. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing authority.