Rhode Island towing license lookup: how to check and get a license
Rhode Island towing license lookup: who issues towing company licenses (Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator)), how to check one online, the license types, and 21 motor vehicle towing businesses by county.
Do towing companies need a license in Rhode Island?
| Who licenses them | Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator) |
|---|---|
| License types | Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (tow-away carrier / certificated tower) |
Rhode Island tow companies operate as 'certificated towers' holding a certificate from the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, which also enforces the Towing Storage Act (including private trespass towing). No online lookup was verified.
How do you look up a towing company's license in Rhode Island?
- Ask the towing company for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the Rhode Island towing license lookup run by Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator).
- Search by license number first. A name search can return several people or companies with similar names.
- Check that the status is active or current, that the license type covers your job, and that the name matches the company on your contract.
- If something doesn't match, ask the towing company about it before you sign or pay a deposit, or contact Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator).
What towing licenses does Rhode Island issue?
- Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (tow-away carrier / certificated tower)
How do you get a towing license in Rhode Island?
Licenses are issued by the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (public utilities administrator) source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many towing companies are there in Rhode Island?
The Census Bureau counted 21 motor vehicle towing businesses with employees in Rhode Island in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Providence County | 21 |
|---|
What do Rhode Island homes mean for towing work?
The median home in Rhode Island was built in 1961, 37% of households rent and 59% of homes are single-family houses. 53% of homes heat with utility gas and 12% with electricity, and 27% with fuel oil.
How do you choose a towing company in Rhode Island?
- Ask for the total price before the tow: hook-up fee, per-mile rate and any storage fees.
- Check that the company is licensed where you are; many cities license tow companies.
- Ask whether they'll take the car to the shop of your choice, not only their own lot.
- For a newer, AWD or low car, ask for a flatbed.
- Get a written receipt that shows the company's name, license number and charges.
Towing Companies in other states
Sources: Rhode Island licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.