Tow/Recovery Vehicles

You need a tow/recovery business certificate and registration if you:

Tow or recover vehicles, other than vehicles you own, for compensation;
Tow or recover vehicles that are wrecked, damaged, disabled, or abandoned or replacement vehicles; or
Solicit or advertise that you perform towing services.

You do not need a tow/recovery business certificate and registration if you are helping another motorist, as long as it is not for business purposes.

Tow vehicle is defined in ORS 801.530.

Oregon Tow/Recovery Vehicle Requirements

Each tow/recovery vehicle must have:

DMV issues title and registration if:

The combined weight (empty vehicle weight plus the total weight of the load) is 26,000 pounds or less.

CCD issues registration if:

The combined weight is over 26,000 pounds, or the vehicle has prorate registration.

When you register with CCD you must apply for the Tow Business Certificate from DMV and put both the DMV and CCD plates on the vehicle. The Tow Business Certificate must be renewed yearly. To apply for a Tow Business Certificate, including the plates:

Out-of-State Tow/Recovery Vehicle Requirements

Each tow/recovery vehicle, for out-of-state tow/recovery businesses towing in Oregon, must have:

Valid prorate registration (apportioned registration, international registration plan or IRP);
Insurance coverage for $50,000 cargo and $750,000 liability per accident;
A temporary pass from Commerce and Compliance Division, if the vehicle has a combined weight (empty vehicle weight plus the total weight of the load) over 26,000 pounds; and
A tow/recovery business certificate and tow/recovery plates from DMV.
- To apply:
  - Complete the application;
  - Provide a valid Certificate of Liability Insurance; and
  - Submit your payment of $42.50, application, and insurance certificate to: