What do you need to become a tow truck driver in Illinois?

A CDL is only required for a tow truck if the vehicle has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating greater than 33,000 lbs.

There are three classes of wrecker, which are classed by their capabilities, not by the license you need to drive them.

Contrary to what some people think, a Class A wrecker is a light duty wrecker. These do not require a CDL, although a DOT medical card typically is required.

Class B wreckers are medium duty wreckers, and this class gets to the point where you're going to start needed a Class B CDL.

Class C wreckers are heavy duty wreckers - the kind which tow semis and such. You would need a Class A CDL to drive one of these, as well as substantial experience driving a truck - you don't just get out of truck driving school and get put behind the wheel of one of these.