• Before you can tow away a vehicle in Texas, you must first learn the state's numerous tow truck rules.no parking image by Tammy Mobley from Fotolia.com
  
  Tow truck operators in Texas must renew their licenses and permits every year. The truck requires the permit; the operator needs the license. Beyond the basic application, fee and proof of insurance, tow truck drivers must also complete educational requirements. This continued education alerts and informs operators of the state's tow truck rules. Failure to adhere to these rules can lead to complaints, and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation conducts periodic inspections to ensure compliance.
  
  

Equipment Violations

• According to the TDLR, tow truck operators must stock and equip their trucks with "at least one 10-pound or two five-pound, multiple-purpose fire extinguisher(s)," magnetic tow lights (unless they're wireless), tow dollies, straps and tie-downs, gloves, wheel chocks, 5-gallon trash container, broom, shovel, 36-inch crow bar and "triangle reflectors, flares, cones, safety lights or other appropriate safety signals." The winch also can't exceed the capacity of the boom, and the hydraulic lines must be leak-free.
  
  

Tow Tickets

• You (or your towing company) must issue a tow ticket for all nonconsent tows. The ticket authorizes expenses related to moving the vehicle to another location. The vehicle owner (if present) and vehicle storage facility must receive copies of the tow ticket.
  
  

Uniforms

• Operators must wear a uniform that clearly shows the name of the towing company. The uniform must also comply with state-approved protective clothing. Tow truck drivers also need to wear a reflective jacket/vest whenever they're not inside their truck. During the daylight, you can wear a fluorescent shirt instead of the reflective jacket.
  
  

Insurance

• Purchase insurance before you apply for your tow truck's permit. To obtain the permit, your insurance company must submit a certificate of insurance. The certificate must insure a minimum of $500,000 liability per tow truck, per incident, and a minimum of $50,000 in cargo or cargo-on-hook insurance per tow truck, per incident, according to the TDLR). For private property towing and consent towing, you need a minimum of $300,000 of liability insurance.
  
  

Vehicle Signage

• Display the permit holder's city, state, name, telephone number and permit number for the truck. Place the information in easy-to-see locations on both sides of the tow truck. Use letters at least 2 inches high and ensure the information is on a background that contrasts with the color of the rest of the truck.
  
  

Data Plate

• Show a manufacturer's data plate on your truck. The plate must display the approved capacity of the winch, boom or other carry mechanism.
  
  

Parking Facilities

• Towing companies can't "give anything of value to a parking facility owner in connection with the removal of a vehicle from a parking facility," according to the TDLR. Towing companies also can't have a financial interest in a parking facility.
  
  

Drug Testing

• Towing companies must manage a drug-testing policy for its drivers. Companies can use the model system provided by the state or another TDLR-approved policy.