What insurance does a tow truck business need? (2026)
Most tow truck operations carry a stack of commercial-insurance lines — some legally required (typically workers' compensation when you have employees), most commonly carried because clients, landlords, lenders, or regulators expect them. Below: the lines that bureau filings most often cite for tow truck operations. Confirm what's legally required vs commonly carried with a licensed agent in your state — requirements vary state by state.
Typical insurance coverages for tow truck operations
Most tow truck businesses carry a stack of 2 commercial-insurance lines — based on common industry practice and the lines that bureau filings most often cite for this vertical. Workers' comp is typically required by state law where employees are involved; the rest are commonly carried but not always legally mandated. Confirm with a licensed agent in your state for what's legally required vs commonly carried.
- Commercial Auto →Liability + physical damage for vehicles owned, leased, hired, or used in the business.
- Workers' Compensation →Medical bills + lost wages for employees injured on the job. Typically required by state law where employees are involved (TX is voluntary).
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Insurance requirements for other industries
Browse the typical insurance coverage stack for other verticals. Each links to that industry's standalone requirements page.
| Business activity |
|---|
| Emergency road services (i.e., tow service) |
| Motor vehicle towing services |
| Towing services, motor vehicle |
| Tow truck services |
| Wrecker services (i.e., towing services), motor vehicle |