Tow Truck Driver Tip Calculator
Calculate appropriate tips for towing and roadside assistance
Tow Truck Driver Tipping Guide
Tipping tow truck drivers is not required but is appreciated, especially for exceptional service or challenging situations. Tips typically range from $5-20 depending on the service provided and difficulty of the job.
Tow Truck Tipping Guidelines
- Basic Tow: $5-10 (standard tow to nearby shop)
- Jump Start/Tire Change: $5-10
- Fuel Delivery: $5-10
- Lockout Service: $5-10
- Long Distance Tow: $10-20+
- Difficult Recovery: $20+ (ditch, accident scene, complex situation)
- Bad Weather: Add $5-10 extra for rain, snow, or extreme conditions
- Late Night/Holidays: Add $5-10 extra
When to Tip More
- Fast Response: If driver arrived quickly during emergency.
- Extra Effort: Difficult recovery, tight spaces, or went above standard service.
- Professionalism: Courteous, clean truck, careful with your vehicle.
- Long Wait: If you had to wait with driver while vehicle is being serviced.
- Personal Touch: Driver provided advice, called ahead to shop, or offered other assistance.
When Tipping May Not Be Expected
- Insurance/AAA Paid: If service is fully covered by insurance or auto club, tipping is optional but still appreciated.
- Police-Called Tows: Tows from accident scenes or parking violations generally don’t expect tips.
Tip in cash if possible, as credit card tips may not reach the driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about tipping for this service
Tip $5-10 for basic services (jump start, tire change, lockout). For tows, tip $10-20. For difficult recoveries or bad weather, tip $20+.
Tipping is not required but appreciated. Many tow services are expensive, and tipping is less expected than other services, but it's a nice gesture for good service.
Yes! If you called for service (not a police-ordered tow), tip the driver even if insurance covers the cost. The driver still provided personal service to you.
Yes, tip $5-10 even for AAA-covered services. Your membership covers the service cost, but drivers appreciate tips for their work.