Ohio Tow Truck Operator Practice Exam

Ohio Tow Truck Operator Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2025|2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the first step before towing any vehicle?
• Secure the hook
• Inspect and verify the vehicle’s condition
• Lower the boom
• Attach the safety chains

Rationale: A pre-tow inspection prevents liability for pre-existing

damages and ensures safety.

• When approaching a disabled vehicle on the roadside, what should

the operator do first?

• Turn on hazard lights only
• Activate amber warning lights and assess the scene
• Immediately begin hookup 1 / 4

• Park directly in front of the vehicle

Rationale: Warning lights and assessment ensure visibility and scene

safety before towing.

3. The main purpose of safety chains is to:

• Balance the load
• Provide a backup connection if the main coupling fails
• Prevent tail swing
• Hold the winch cable

Rationale: Safety chains act as a secondary safety measure if the

main connection breaks.

• Which law governs towing operations on Ohio highways?
• State Highway Act
• Federal Tow Safety Code
• Ohio Revised Code (ORC)
• National Transportation Statute

Rationale: The ORC defines the requirements for towing, permits,

and operator conduct in Ohio.

• When towing a front-wheel-drive vehicle with the front wheels on the

ground, what damage can occur?

• Steering issues
• Transmission damage
• Brake failure
• Axle bending 2 / 4

Rationale: The transmission can be damaged because it’s not

designed to rotate without lubrication while towed.

• Which color of flashing light is allowed for tow trucks in Ohio?
• Blue
• Red
• Amber
• White

Rationale: Amber flashing lights are approved for tow truck visibility

without implying emergency status.

• What is the correct angle for loading a vehicle onto a flatbed?

A. 45°

B. 20°

• As low as possible

D. 30°

Rationale: A lower angle reduces drag and damage risk during

loading.

8. Before lifting a vehicle, always:

• Engage the PTO
• Release parking brake
• Check weight rating of equipment
• Attach winch cable

Rationale: Exceeding equipment limits causes dangerous load

failures. 3 / 4

9. A winch cable should be replaced if:

• It’s 2 years old
• It has six or more broken strands in one lay
• It squeaks during operation
• It appears dull

Rationale: Industry standards require replacement when structural

integrity is compromised.

10. The purpose of wheel dollies is to:

• Lift the rear axle
• Move vehicles with locked or damaged wheels
• Increase truck speed
• Support winch cables

Rationale: Wheel dollies allow towing without rolling the vehicle’s

own wheels.

11. The correct way to secure a vehicle on a flatbed is:

• One strap on front
• Four-point tie-down method
• Rear straps only
• One chain across the frame

Rationale: Four tie-downs (one for each wheel) ensure full load

security.

12. When towing in snowy weather, the operator should:

• Drive faster to prevent ice buildup
• / 4