Short answer: California requires motor carriers of property to carry at least a $750,000 combined single limit of liability (Vehicle Code §34631.5). A for-hire tow truck can make the first emergency move regardless of the towed vehicle's load, but later moves need protection adequate for that load. To join the CHP rotation-tow program, minimums are $750,000 for Class A and $1,000,000 for Classes B-D, plus on-hook and garage liability.
State law
Vehicle Code §34631.5 sets a combined single limit of not less than $750,000 for bodily injury and property damage for most motor carriers of property. For tow operators, the statute adds:
- An emergency move (the first one-way carriage from the scene to the nearest safe location) is allowed without regard to the towed vehicle's load.
- Any later or non-emergency move must have liability protection adequate for the commodity the towed vehicle is carrying.
CHP rotation-tow minimums
If you want CHP rotation calls, the 2025-2026 CHP Tow Service Agreement requires:
| Coverage | Class A | Class B | Class C | Class D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liability (BI/PD, combined single limit, including hired and non-owned) | $750,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 | $1,000,000 |
| On-hook / cargo | $50,000 | $100,000 | $200,000 | $250,000 |
| Garage liability (premises and operations) | $500,000 | $500,000 | $500,000 | $500,000 |
| Uninsured motorist | Legal minimum | Legal minimum | Legal minimum | Legal minimum |
Cities, police agencies and motor clubs may set their own higher requirements.
Checklist
- Confirm each truck's CHP class and match on-hook limits to it.
- Add garagekeepers coverage if you store customers' vehicles in your yard.
- Check every contract (city, motor club, dealer) for higher limits.
Related: tow truck insurance and who insures tow trucks in California.
Frequently asked questions
How much liability insurance does a tow truck need in California?
Vehicle Code §34631.5 sets a $750,000 combined single limit for motor carriers of property, and CHP rotation requires $750,000 for Class A and $1,000,000 for Classes B-D.
What on-hook coverage does the CHP require?
$50,000 for Class A, $100,000 for Class B, $200,000 for Class C and $250,000 for Class D tow trucks under the 2025-2026 Tow Service Agreement.
Does a tow truck need cargo coverage for what the towed vehicle carries?
For the first emergency move, no. Any later or non-emergency move needs liability protection adequate for that commodity under §34631.5.
Do CHP rotation tow companies need garage liability?
Yes, at least a $500,000 combined single limit covering premises and operations.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. Not legal, tax or financial advice, and not a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.