07/08/2026
🚛 WAC 204-91A-170(8) – Class E Tow Truck Requirements
TTOW members — stay compliant! Here's a clear breakdown of the minimum standards for Class "E" tow trucks under Washington Administrative Code 204-91A-170 subsection (8).
Class E Definition
Trucks primarily designed and intended to transport other vehicles by loading and carrying the transported vehicle entirely on the truck (flatbed, slide-back, tilt bed, or rail design truck). Class "E" trucks, unless specifically factory equipped with a side recovery system, are not designed for vehicle recovery and therefore must not be used as a replacement for a class "A" truck unless specifically authorized by the patrol.
Class E trucks must meet ALL general minimum standards in subsection (2)(a) through (x), plus these additional requirements:
Vehicle & Capacity Ratings
Minimum 14,500 lb GVWR
Dual tires on the rear axle
Current licensing and tonnage equal to the maximum combination GVWR
Minimum 19 feet of usable bed capable of carrying vehicles
Winch & Recovery Equipment Ratings
4-ton winch rating
50 feet of 3/8-inch XIP (extra improved plowed steel) fiber core or IWRC wire rope
One 4.0-ton sn**ch block
One 5-foot Grade 7 chain with matching fittings for winching
Securement Requirements
Four tie-downs, each with a minimum 3,300 lb Working Load Limit
Tie-downs must be Grade 7 or stronger (chain, wire rope, nylon strap, or steel strap)
All four tie-downs must be used on every vehicle
Affixed to the axle, tires, or frame — both front and rear
All tie-down ends must be anchored to the truck bed or rail to prevent movement (factory-style “T” hook tie-downs allowed)
Additional Equipment
Permanently affixed safety chains if equipped with sling, tow bar, and/or wheel lift system
If using wheel lift: attach vehicle with adjustable tie-down (or per manufacturer specs)
Portable tail, stop, and turn signal lights when used in towing mode (mounted level and spaced laterally)
If factory equipped with side recovery system: must meet full Class A winch and wire rope minimums
General Standards Also Apply (Key Highlights from (2))
All winching equipment used within working load limits (wire rope at 1/5 breaking strength)
trucks may be equipped with a sling, tow bar,
and/or a wheel lift system.
(i) If equipped with a towing system:
(A) The system must have a manufacturer's rating appropriate to the vehicle being towed. If used in a towing mode (as opposed to car-
rying), a sling, tow bar, and/or wheel lift assembly can be used and must have a manufacturer's rating appropriate to the vehicle being towed
Grade 7+ chains and safety chains
Legal lighting, 360° red revolving/strobe light with cab warning light, company markings, etc.
Required tools: broom, scoop shovel, pinch bar, fire extinguisher(s), 2 gallons absorbent material, two-way comms (phone), etc.
Truck maintained in clean condition
Full official text: https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=204-91A-170&pdf=true
Compliance keeps our industry safe and professional. Questions or need clarification on equipment standards? Drop them in the comments.
