Wondering about the tow truck driver tipping etiquette? You’re not alone. It’s optional to tip two truck drivers, but let’s explore in depth if you should tip, how much, and when not to tip. (For any questions about roadside emergencies or insurance coverage, you can always call Insure On The Spot at 773-202-5060.)
Are you expected to tip a tow truck driver?
Many people aren’t sure if tipping a tow truck driver is customary. After all, towing isn’t like dining at a restaurant where tipping is standard. The truth is that tipping a tow operator is entirely up to you. It’s not an industry requirement or expectation to tip, but it has become common to offer a gratuity as a thank-you for good service. Tow truck drivers work hard, often in difficult or dangerous conditions, to help stranded motorists. They may brave busy highways, bad weather, and risky situations to get your vehicle to safety. Given these challenges (and the fact that the average tow truck driver’s salary is modest, around ~$50,000/year, which is below the U.S. median household income), a tip can be a meaningful way to show your appreciation.
It’s important to note that a tip is a reward for good service, not an obligation. In a Pew Research Center survey, 77% of Americans said the quality of service is a significant factor in whether they tip and how much. This means if your tow truck driver was prompt, professional, and helpful, it’s normal to want to reward that effort. On the other hand, if the service was subpar or the circumstances don’t warrant it, you’re not expected to tip. Most tow operators won’t be offended if you don’t tip, but they’ll be grateful if you do. As one towing professional put it, a tip is “always appreciated” but “not required”.
How much should you tip a tow truck driver?
Unlike the 15-20% guideline in restaurants, there’s no strict rule or standard amount for tipping tow truck drivers However, a common tipping range for towing services is about $5 to $20 in most cases. The exact amount can depend on the complexity of the job and the level of service:
Basic light-duty jobs
For a simple service like a battery jump-start, unlocking your car, or changing a flat tire, a tip on the lower end (around $5 or so) is often sufficient. These tasks are typically quick and not too demanding. Many people will hand the driver a $5 or $10 bill as a thank-you for getting them back on the road quickly in these minor predicaments.
Standard tows
If your vehicle had to be towed a short distance or the service was straightforward, tipping on the order of $10 is a nice gesture. Some suggest using a percentage of the towing fee as a guide. For example, around 10%–15% of the tow cost, but in practice, a flat amount in the $10-$20 range is usually fine.
Difficult recoveries or long tows
If the tow truck driver really had to work hard, perhaps pulling your car out of a ditch in the mud or snow, or towing it a long distance, you can consider a larger tip. Tips of $20 or more are common for complex, labor-intensive jobs or particularly excellent service. This higher amount reflects the extra time and effort the driver spent helping you in a tough situation.
Exceptional service
Did the driver arrive rapidly at 2 AM or in a blizzard? Did they go above and beyond, like giving you a ride home or helping diagnose a problem? For service that exceeds your expectations, you might lean toward the higher end of the tip range (or add a few extra dollars on top of your initial thought). Some drivers have even received tips of $30 or more in rare cases when they truly saved the day, though that’s not required by any means. It’s simply up to your generosity and budget.
Keep in mind that tipping is optional, and you should only give what you can afford. Don’t stretch your budget or feel guilted into tipping more than is comfortable. Unlike in some industries, tow truck operators are not relying on tips as their primary wage; they are typically paid by their company or through your service fee. The tip is a bonus for them. So if you’re low on cash or the tow itself was very expensive (perhaps hundreds of dollars), it’s understandable to keep the tip modest or skip it. Even a small tip like a fiver can show your gratitude. And if you truly can’t spare anything, that’s okay. A sincere thank-you (and perhaps other gestures discussed later) can go a long way, too.
When should you tip a tow truck driver?
Aside from the dollar amount, consider the context and the driver’s effort when deciding whether to tip. There are certain situations where tipping a tow truck driver is especially common or warranted. Here are some examples of when you might want to tip (and tip on the higher side):
Difficult or dangerous recoveries
If your vehicle was stuck in a tricky or hazardous spot, for instance, in a ditch, in deep mud or snow, or on a busy highway shoulder, the tow truck driver had to do extra work and take on more risk to help you. In these scenarios, a tip is a thoughtful way to acknowledge the effort and danger involved.
Bad weather or late-night assistance
Towing a car in poor weather conditions (such as heavy rain, a snowstorm, or extreme cold) or coming out to rescue you in the middle of the night or on a holiday is no small ask. Drivers who brave uncomfortable or hazardous conditions to get you to safety definitely deserve a thank-you, and many people will tip more in appreciation of that sacrifice.
Outstanding customer service
If the tow operator was exceptionally friendly, reassuring, or helpful, like if they put you at ease during a stressful breakdown, or went out of their way to make sure you were safe and informed, then a tip is a great way to reward their professionalism and kindness. A positive attitude can really turn your day around when you’re stranded, and many folks happily tip a driver who eases their worries (the phrase “a little cash for a big smile” comes to mind).
Extra labor or long-distance tows
Sometimes, towing isn’t just hitch-and-go. Perhaps the driver had to winch your car out of a tight spot, spend a long time troubleshooting, or tow your vehicle a very long distance to your preferred repair shop. When the job is more involved than a standard tow, it feels more appropriate to tip because the driver invested additional time and effort. For example, if a tow truck operator has to navigate through heavy traffic for hours or use special equipment to retrieve your vehicle, a generous tip would not be out of place.
After-hours or holiday calls
Tow truck drivers often work 24/7, and that means someone might get out of bed at 3 AM to help you, or spend their holiday evening rescuing stranded drivers. If you’ve called for help at an odd hour or on a major holiday, consider tipping a bit extra as a thank-you for their availability and dedication.
Is it okay not to tip a tow truck driver?
Yes, it is absolutely okay not to tip if you decide not to. Towing services are generally not like waiting tables; the workers don’t rely on customer tips to earn a basic living. If you’re already paying a substantial fee for the tow or roadside service, you shouldn’t feel a further obligation to tip on top of that. You should never feel guilty for not tipping, especially if doing so would be a financial burden for you. The tow truck driver will still get paid by their company or through your insurance/club membership for the job. In fact, some companies build a service charge or mileage fee into the cost, which is how the driver’s work is compensated.
There are also instances where a tow truck driver may not be allowed to accept tips. Certain companies or municipal services have policies against their employees taking gratuities. For example, if the tow truck was dispatched by the police or your city’s roadside assistance program, the driver might politely refuse a tip because of rules they have to follow. Don’t be offended if this happens because it doesn’t mean your gesture wasn’t appreciated. Similarly, drivers working under auto club contracts (like AAA) or insurance-provided roadside assistance may have their own guidelines; some of those companies pay the drivers a set rate and don’t expect customers to tip. If a tow operator ever says they can’t accept your money, just thank them for their help and know that you tried.
Lastly, not tipping is acceptable if you were unhappy with the service. Tipping is meant to reward a job well done. If the driver was rude, reckless with your vehicle, or left you waiting an excessively long time without good reason, it’s understandable to skip the tip. That said, serious issues with service might be better addressed by contacting the towing company or your insurer to give feedback. But from an etiquette standpoint, you are not obligated to tip every tow truck service, especially if it didn’t meet your expectations. The key is that tipping is voluntary. Drivers appreciate it when it happens, but they do not universally expect every customer to hand them cash.
Should you tip a tow truck driver if you have AAA or insurance roadside assistance?
If you’re using AAA or an insurance-provided roadside assistance service, you might wonder if tipping rules are different. After all, in these cases, you typically aren’t paying the tow truck driver directly – your membership or insurance is covering the cost. Even so, the etiquette for tipping remains much the same. The tow truck operators who respond to AAA calls or insurance roadside requests are often third-party contractors or service providers. They do get paid by AAA/insurance for the job, but that doesn’t preclude giving them a tip for helping you out.
AAA does not require or expect members to tip their service providers, and many drivers for AAA or similar programs do not anticipate a tip from customers. However, it’s still common for appreciative members to offer a little something. Think of it this way: you may not be paying out of pocket at the time, but the driver is performing the same work and providing the same roadside rescue as any other tow call. A tip can be a way to personally thank them for saving you time and hassle. In fact, many AAA customers choose to tip their tow driver around $5-$10 for a typical assist, especially if the driver arrived quickly or solved a tricky problem. AAA’s own guidelines leave tipping to your discretion. It’s never required, but if the driver did a great job, a tip is a nice bonus for them.
Similarly, if your auto insurance includes roadside assistance and dispatches a tow, you can treat that situation like any other towing scenario. The fee might be covered by your policy, but the person changing your tire or towing your car is still working hard on your behalf. They probably get a standard payment from the insurer for the call, and they aren’t expecting you to pay anything out of pocket. But can you tip them? Yes, you certainly can, and many people do when the service is excellent. Just like with any tow, use your judgment: if the technician was prompt, skilled, and friendly during a stressful breakdown, giving $5, $10, or whatever you feel is appropriate can show your gratitude. On the other hand, if they simply did their job and you’d rather not tip, that’s fine too. The company has already compensated them. To sum up, having AAA or insurance cover the tow doesn’t rule out tipping. It comes down to your personal sense of appreciation.
(One note: If you’re unsure whether the roadside program prohibits tips, you can always ask the driver, “Do you guys accept tips?” Some might say company policy takes care of them, and you don’t need to, in which case you can save your cash. But most often they’ll humbly say something like “you don’t have to, but I appreciate it,” leaving it up to you.)
What if you can’t tip the tow truck driver?
There may be situations where you’d like to tip but can’t because you don’t have any cash on hand, or you can only afford a small amount, or the driver refused to take a tip. Don’t worry, you still have options to show your appreciation. Here are a few alternative ways to thank a tow truck driver when a cash tip isn’t possible:
Give a sincere thank-you (and explain the situation)
A genuine expression of gratitude costs nothing and can mean a lot. If you’re caught without cash, you might say something like, “I really appreciate your help – I’m sorry I don’t have any cash to tip you right now.” Most drivers will completely understand (many people don’t carry cash these days) and will be glad to know you value their assistance. A little kindness and acknowledgement of their effort can make their day.
Leave a positive review or feedback
One of the best non-monetary “tips” you can give is a glowing review for the driver or their company. You can hop online to the towing company’s Google listing, Yelp, or Facebook page and write a few kind words about how they helped you. Mention the driver by name if possible. Publicly recognizing good service not only boosts the driver’s morale but also helps their business. Similarly, if your insurance or auto club sends you a survey about the service, be sure to give high marks and compliments where deserved.
Spread the word
Another way to thank the driver is by referring business to them. If a friend in the area ever needs a tow, recommend the company that helped you. Positive word-of-mouth can lead to more customers for the towing service. Letting the driver know, “I’ll be sure to tell others about you guys,” is a nice gesture. It shows you’ll remember their help and promotes them in the long run.
Small gifts or follow-ups
In some cases, people might show thanks in creative ways – for example, handing the driver a hot cup of coffee or a bottled drink on a cold day, or sending a thank-you card to the company afterwards. These are optional ideas only if you feel comfortable. The most straightforward methods remain a hearty “thank you” and an honest review or recommendation.
Remember, tow truck drivers don’t do the job for tips, but they certainly appreciate any gesture of appreciation, whether it’s monetary or not. If a driver went out of their way for you and you couldn’t tip at the time, you might even consider catching them the next time (if you frequent the same area or service). But that’s going above and beyond. In general, never underestimate the power of polite appreciation. One driver noted that even a simple thanks or a smile can “make a difference” in their otherwise tough workday. So, do what you can, and don’t stress if a cash tip isn’t in the cards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should I tip my tow truck driver?
It’s up to you. Tipping a tow truck driver is not required, but it is a nice gesture if you feel they provided good service. Many people choose to tip, especially when the driver has been helpful, prompt, or dealt with difficult conditions, but you won’t be breaking any rules if you decide not to tip.
How much do you tip a tow truck driver?
There’s no set amount. Common tips range from about $5 to $20 for most jobs. For a simple task (jump-start, unlock, tire change) $5 or $10 is plenty, while a harder job or long tow might merit $15 or $20. Some folks use 10-15% of the tow fee as a guideline, but it’s really about what you think is appropriate given the service.
Do tow truck drivers expect tips?
Generally, no, they do not expect tips from every customer. Tow operators are paid for the job by their company or through your service fee, so they don’t rely on tips to make a living. However, they certainly appreciate tips when offered. You might even make a driver’s day by surprising them with a tip, since it’s not guaranteed on every call.
Is it okay not to tip a tow truck driver?
Yes, it’s perfectly okay. Tipping is voluntary. If you don’t have the means or don’t feel the service warranted a tip, you are under no obligation to give one. The driver will still be paid by the company or your auto club. There should be no hard feelings if you politely thank the driver without handing over a tip. It’s a common occurrence, and they understand not everyone can or will tip.
Should you tip AAA or roadside assistance tow drivers?
The same principles apply. Even though you’re not paying the driver directly (AAA or your insurer is), you can tip the tow truck driver from a roadside assistance call as a thanks. It’s not required by AAA or insurance companies, but many people still tip $5-$10 for a job well done by the driver who comes to help. If you choose not to tip, that’s fine too. Those drivers don’t expect every club member to offer extra money.
Do I tip for a jump start or tire change?
These smaller roadside services typically cost less and take less time than a full tow, so tipping is often on the lower end or not at all. It’s common (but optional) to tip around $5 for a quick jump-start or tire change, especially if the technician arrived quickly and got you on your way. If the person went out of their way to find you or the situation was tricky (e.g. stuck lug nuts, or they drove a long distance to reach you), you might tip a bit more. But if you don’t tip for a 5-minute battery jump, that’s okay as well. Drivers don’t universally expect it for very quick fixes.
What if a tow truck driver refuses a tip?
If a driver declines your tip, don’t be offended. Some companies prohibit employees from accepting tips, or the driver might feel like they were “just doing their job.” Simply respect their refusal, and perhaps thank them again instead. You could also leave a nice review for the company as an alternate way to show appreciation, since the driver wouldn’t take your money.
Why should I tip a tow truck driver if I already paid so much for the tow?
It’s true that towing can be expensive, and you might feel the fee itself is enough. Remember, the tow fee often goes to the company, and the driver may only see a portion of it as their wage. A tip directly rewards the person who helped you. That said, if the cost was high and you’d rather not tip on top, that’s your choice. No one should stretch their budget to tip. A sincere thank-you is always acceptable in lieu of cash.