1. UDOT
  2. Motor Carrier
  3. Tow Trucks
  4. Tow Truck Inspection

Tow Truck Inspection

TOW TRUCK INSPECTION

Tow Truck Equipment Form (PDF File)

Electronic Inspection Form (UDOT Use)

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

  • Amber rotating/oscillating lights – used to alert public of emergency situations; permanent fixtures mounted on vehicle at the highest point/; at least one 6″ diameter light. B. Horn – Used as an audible warning device.
  • Portable lights – turn signals, brake lights, and emergency hazards when the rear lights on the tow vehicle are blocked. May also be wireless.
    • Only required if tow vehicle is equipped with a wheel lift.
  • Fire extinguisher (min. 10BC) – used to put out small fires; must be readily available, secured, and charged.
  • Tie down chains or straps (min. 4) – used to ensure load remains secured.F.  Door and steering wheel ties – used to ensure doors remain closed while towing; also locks steering (and tires) in place.
  • Cones or triangles (min. 3) – used for traffic control; required as emergency equipment on commercial motor vehicle
  • Scoop shovel – used to clean up glass, etc. from roadway.
  • Broom – used to clean up glass, etc. from roadway.
  • Safety chains (min. grade 7) – used to lock towed vehicle to boom or bed; prevent excessive swaying and possible breaking away from boom or bed.
  • Oil absorbent – used to assist in absorbing spilled diesel fuel, antifreeze, battery acid, and etc. from roadway.
  • Debris container (5 gal) – used to contain glass, etc. swept from roadway.
  • Chock blocks (2) or stiff legs – used to stabilize the recover vehicle when on ice or other slippery surfaces during recovery operations.
  • Safety vest (class 2) – used to highlight the tow truck driver to the public.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

  • Front of truck – check headlamps, turn signals, four-way flashers, marker and ID lights; proper lamp color, mounting, and visibility; and wipers.
  • Side of truck – check wheels, rims, and tires.
  • Rear of truck – check tail lamps, stop lamps, turn signals, and 4-way flashers.
  • Cargo area – ensure all equipment and other cargo is properly secured.
  • Annual State Safety Inspection

VEHICLE LOAD CAPACITY

  • Truck data plate – must be attached to vehicle (or official document available in vehicle); must state manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
  • Boom or Bed data plate – must be attached to boom or bed (or official document available in vehicle); must state boom’s (or bed’s) maximum load capacity.
  • Wheel Lift data plate – must be attached to wheel lift, boom, or bed (or official document available in vehicle); must state wheel lift maximum load capacity.

Note: Some vehicles may only have one data plate that gives the information on the bed, boom wheel lift instead of having individual plates on each area.

A tow truck will be certified when all of the required safety equipment, vehicle maintenance, data plates for bed, boom and wheel lift is on the vehicle, and functioning properly.