West Virginia towing license lookup: how to check and get a license
West Virginia towing license lookup: who issues towing company licenses (PSC), how to check one online, the license types, and 46 motor vehicle towing businesses by county.
Do towing companies need a license in West Virginia?
| Who licenses them | Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC) |
|---|---|
| License types | Registered Tow Carrier (wrecker registration with the PSC) |
| When a license is required | Towing wrecked or disabled vehicles for hire requires PSC registration, and registered carriers may not charge more than the PSC's maximum rate schedules |
West Virginia tow companies must register with the Public Service Commission, which sets maximum statewide or regional towing rates. If you were overcharged, file a complaint with the PSC.
How do you look up a towing company's license in West Virginia?
- Ask the towing company for the license number and the exact business name on the license.
- Open the official PSC license search run by PSC.
- 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 PSC.
What towing licenses does West Virginia issue?
- Registered Tow Carrier (wrecker registration with the PSC)
How do you get a towing license in West Virginia?
Licenses are issued by the Public Service Commission of West Virginia (PSC). Requirements such as experience, exams, insurance and fees change, so read the current rules on the official PSC source before you apply. Already licensed? List your business on Expert Helper to get matched with customers.
How many towing companies are there in West Virginia?
The Census Bureau counted 46 motor vehicle towing businesses with employees in West Virginia in 2023. The counties with the most:
| Kanawha County | 9 |
|---|---|
| Monongalia County | 6 |
| Raleigh County | 5 |
| Marion County | 5 |
| Cabell County | 5 |
| Mercer County | 4 |
| Wood County | 3 |
| Logan County | 3 |
What do West Virginia homes mean for towing work?
The median home in West Virginia was built in 1976, 26% of households rent and 73% of homes are single-family houses. 41% of homes heat with utility gas and 46% with electricity, and 2% with fuel oil.
How do you choose a towing company in West Virginia?
- 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: West Virginia licensing agency (linked above); US Census Bureau County Business Patterns 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates.