I was wondering what was needed in washington state to start a tow business. I don't plan on doing any impounds, only private tows and road service. I find the RCW's and WAC's hard to read 
. Do I still have to get a RTTO license? Are transporter plates what I need? If you could help me on what licenses I need it would be greatly appreciated?
thank you
I run under a transporter plate. I do not have a yard and do not do PPI's so I see no need to be a RTTO. Were in WA are you? Some Cities have strict rules about parking commercial vehicles in them!
Hello JAW,
No, you do not need an RTTO unless you wish to process impounds or tow for PD's.
There is some debate over the transporter plates, technically, if you tow (two wheels on the ground) a vehicle that is unlicensed, you must display a transporter plate to be legal. If you haul it on a flat bed, or if it has valid licence, no plate is necessary.
All you need is a standard business licence.
Hope this helps!
Bill
[/I]Hello JAW,
No, you do not need an RTTO unless you wish to process impounds or tow for PD's.
There is some debate over the transporter plates, technically, if you tow (two wheels on the ground) a vehicle that is unlicensed, you must display a transporter plate to be legal. If you haul it on a flat bed, or if it has valid licence, no plate is necessary.
[I]
Thank you so much for replying. This has all been very helpful. Now I can see why there's a debate aout the plates, and that's where I'm confused a bit.
WAC 308-80-010
(1) The term "transporter" applies only to those engaged in the business of delivering vehicles, not owned by said transporter, by driveaway or towaway methods and does not apply to motor freight carriers licensed under chapter 81.80 RCW to haul vehicles on trailers or semitrailers.
^^^^I read this part as saying if I don't own the vehicle I am a transporter needing to use plates.....correct? 
RCW 46.76.060
Display of plates — Nontransferability.
Transporter's license plates shall be conspicuously displayed on all vehicles being delivered by the driveaway or towaway methods. These plates shall not be loaned to or used by any person other than the holder of the license or his employees.
^^^^I read this one as all vehicles must have plates....?soo confusing
Thanks
JAW 