Carrier vs. Carrier Comparisons
Related Companies
Things to Know
- You are not obligated to tip a tow truck driver
- Truck drivers will always appreciate a tip of $10 for good service
- You can forgo worrying about tow service tipping by getting roadside assistance
Are you supposed to tip tow truck drivers? Whether you agree with the practice or not, America has many services where workers depend on tips. From taxi drivers to hairstylists, knowing who you're supposed to tip gets confusing.
Most people know to tip their waiter or valet, but should you tip the tow truck driver? The answer gets more complicated when it's covered by insurance. Are you supposed to tip roadside assistance, too?
Luckily, there are guidelines for tipping tow truck drivers.
Do you normally tip a tow truck driver? Read on to learn when you should tip tow truck drivers, how much to tip, and how roadside assistance can save you money on towing services.
Tipping a Tow Truck Driver
Nobody likes finding something wrong with their car. From a simple flat tire to a mechanical issue, anything that makes your vehicle undrivable can ruin your day. It's even worse when it happens away from home, and you get stuck on the side of the road in need of a tow.
Do you tip a tow truck driver? The basic answer is that you should only tip a tow truck driver if you feel moved to do so. While drivers appreciate tips, they don't expect them.
Generally speaking, you should feel free to tip when a tow truck driver provides excellent service. You don't have to worry about offending a driver by offering a tip — they’ll probably appreciate it.
How much do you tip a tow truck driver after a great tow? For a tow, $10 is a good tip, while $5 is enough for basic roadside assistance like a jump start.
But why aren't you expected to tip a tow truck driver? The main reason is that a driver's regular wages are meant to be enough compensation for their work.
Unlike restaurant waiters who are almost always underpaid and rely on your tip, getting extra money from you is a happy bonus for drivers. Do I tip the tow truck driver? Your tow truck driver would love to be tipped even if they're not expecting it.
Do you tip the tow truck driver? Tow drivers and other roadside assistance services offer skilled labor not everyone can perform, and a tip is a great way to show your appreciation.
When to Tip a Tow Truck Driver
Should I tip a tow truck driver? If you feel like their service warrants a tip, feel free to give one.
Most tow companies tell customers they don't need to tip their drivers, but you won't often find a driver who turns a tip down unless their employer doesn't allow them.
So, when should you tip tow truck drivers? Consider tipping in these situations:
- Your car is stuck in a dangerous spot, such as a busy highway or dark road.
- You need a tow in bad weather or late at night.
- The driver needs to travel a long distance to reach you.
- It takes extra work to get to your car, like when it’s stuck in mud or ice.
- The driver provides quick or friendly service.
So, do we tip tow truck drivers? As with most services, feel free to tip whenever you feel impressed.
However, what happens if your tow is included in a roadside assistance plan, such as one from AAA insurance? Do you tip AAA drivers?
Most roadside assistance programs say you shouldn't tip your driver, so you don't need to feel obligated to tip. However, the same guidelines apply — if your driver gives you excellent service, consider giving them a tip.
How Much to Tip a Tow Truck Driver
Do I tip a tow truck driver? You can if you want to, but when you feel like you should give a tip, knowing how much to leave can be confusing. How much do you tip tow truck drivers?
If you're unsure how much to give, a general rule is to tip 10% of the total bill. However, some industries have different standards.
| Industry | How Much to Tip |
|---|---|
| Cab/taxi driver | 10% of your drive (at least $2) |
| Barista | Not required, but you can add to the tip jar |
| Bellhop | $1 or $2 per bag |
| Hotel housekeeper | $2 to $5 per day |
| Dog walker or groomer | 15% |
| Furniture delivery | $5 to $20, depending on the item. You can also offer cold drinks |
| Manicurist or spa worker | 15% |
| Food delivery driver | 10% |
| Bartender | $1 per drink |
| Valet | $5 to $10 |
| Room service | At least $5 |
| Hairstylist | 15% to 20% |
With all that variety, it's not difficult to see why tipping can be confusing.
So, how much do you tip a tow driver? Consider the cost of the service you need and the quality provided and tip between 10%-15%. We go into the average cost for a tow truck below.
Average Cost For Towing a Car
Looking for $50 towing near you? Unfortunately, tow services can be expensive, especially if you're stuck on a busy street.
The towing cost per mile will vary by city and towing company, but be prepared to pay at least $100-$125.
The most significant factors in the price of towing near you are the location of your car and how far you need to move the disabled vehicle. Other factors include:
- the services you need
- weather conditions
- the company you choose
- the size of your vehicle
The cost of your tow starts with a flat fee you'll have to pay no matter how far the driver takes you. Most companies set their prices at between $35 and $100 to pick up your car.
You might find a company that will give you the first 5-10 miles for free before charging more, while others will charge you for every mile. Whenever the company starts charging you for mileage, you'll usually pay between $2.50 and $7 per mile.
Adding to the expense of a tow is that you usually need to have your car brought to a mechanic for repairs, especially if your vehicle breaks down while you're driving it. Knowing how much a tow can cost can help you decide if you do tip your tow truck driver and ensure you have the funds set aside for any problems that might arise in the future.
Find Auto Insurance With Roadside Assistance
A roadside assistance plan can help get cheap towing near you. Drivers without it can pay hundreds of dollars more to find a tow truck nearby. Check out the best insurance companies for roadside assistance.
Roadside assistance is a great option for any driver, no matter what type of car they drive, to find a tow truck. Adding it to your policy will connect you with the cheapest towing near you should you ever need it.
If you have roadside assistance as either a standalone plan or an add-on to your car insurance, your tow will be at least partially covered. Most plans cover tows within a specified number of miles, though there are limits. Make sure to check what your plan covers, so you never run into problems.
Roadside assistance also covers the following:
- Flat tires
- Fuel delivery
- Battery jump starts
- Locksmith services
These are the most common services in a roadside assistance plan, but most companies offer additional services to increase your protection.
Roadside Insurance Costs
You typically pay for roadside assistance in monthly or yearly increments, though some insurance companies allow you to use their services as needed. The amount you'll pay depends on whether you buy a standalone plan or an add-on to your insurance, but you can get an idea of how much it will cost you below.
| Company | Average Annual Price |
|---|---|
| Nationwide | $23 for basic, $42 for plus |
| American Family | $10 to $20 |
| Farmers | $23 |
| Allstate | $24 for add-on, $86 to $144 for Motorclub membership |
| Progressive | $16 |
| USAA | $14 |
| Travelers | Starting at $12 |
| State Farm | $10 |
| GEICO | $14 |
| AAA | $38 to $164 |
As you can see, insurance add-ons are typically more affordable than standalone plans like AAA. However, AAA offers many services not covered by insurance add-ons, so it's essential to research your options and compare car insurance online before making a decision.
Drivers without roadside assistance should include the cost of a tow in their emergency fund for their car, along with other events like new brakes or flat tires. However, many drivers forget to plan for a tow until it's too late.
Final Thoughts on Tipping a Tow Truck Driver
Should I tip the tow truck driver? Whether or not to tip a tow truck driver might seem confusing, but there's no need to stress. You aren't required to tip, and some drivers might not be allowed to accept tips based on their employer.
How much should I tip a tow truck driver? When in doubt, $10 will be an appreciated gesture by any tow truck driver.
You can also completely skip the confusion by signing up for roadside assistance. This insurance add-on will reduce the average cost per mile for towing services and often includes flat tire changes and jumpstarts.
You may be able to sign up for roadside assistance on your current car insurance, but you should always shop around. Comparing car insurance quotes is the best way to get the most affordable price possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it customary to tip tow truck drivers?
Tow truck drivers do not require tips, and some employers may not allow their drivers to accept tips. But are you supposed to tip a tow truck driver? As a rule, you can tip the driver for exceptional service if you want.
How much should you tip a tow truck driver?
How much to tip a tow truck driver depends on the service provided and the cost of the tow. People typically give 10% of the total cost as a tip to the driver.
How much is a tow?
The average cost for a tow is around $100-$125, but prices go up the farther you need to go. Call local companies to get a towing estimate or take advantage of free roadside assistance services if you have it on your auto policy.
Do tow truck drivers get tips?
Tow truck drivers will accept tips if they're given them unless their employer has a policy against tipping. So if you're wondering if you have to tip tow truck drivers, it's all about your personal preference.
Do you tip AAA tow truck drivers?
You aren't required to tip AAA drivers but can if you wish to give one.
Do you tip a tow truck driver in Florida?
There is no state law in Florida that requires you to tip a tow truck driver. Giving a tip is a personal preference.
Do you tip a tow truck driver in California?
California drivers are not required to tip for towing services, but many places recommend a 10% tip for exceptional service.
Do you tip roadside assistance?
Tipping roadside assistance isn't customary, but based on personal preferences, you may want to provide a tip based on your experience.
How much do you tip roadside assistance?
Drivers might tip roadside assistance 10%-15% depending on the kind of work provided, but you aren't obligated to do so.
Should I tip tow truck drivers from roadside assistance?
Your insurance company likely says not to tip tow truck drivers, but whether you want to depends on your personal opinion of the driver and their service.
How much do you tip the tow truck driver for changing a flat tire?
You don't have to tip for changing a flat tire, but some drivers give $5-$10 for speedy service or great customer interactions.
Why do tow trucks take so long?
How long it takes a tow truck to arrive depends on your location, the traffic congestion in your area, and how many drivers are available. The tow truck company will typically give you a time estimate but expect to wait at least 1-2 hours.
Am I supposed to tip a tow truck driver if they take too long?
You don't have to tip tow truck drivers, but how quickly they arrive (or don't) could impact your personal decision to give a tip.
Can I ride with the tow truck driver?
Usually you can ride with the tow truck driver to the repair shop, but that policy will vary by company. It's best to confirm with the driver when you call.
What is the longest length you can tow?
In general, vehicles cannot exceed 65 feet in length or weigh more than 26,000 lbs.