Tow truck auxiliary number plates

Find out how you can order an auxiliary number plate if you are a tow truck operator in NSW.

NSW Fair Trading has released Tow truck operator self-audit checklist, use the checklist to check your tow truck business meets its obligations under the law.

Tow trucks may display auxiliary number plates that can be ordered directly from a Service NSW Service Centre.

Auxiliary number plates:

  • have the same letters and numbers as the plates on the tow truck.
  • have black characters on an off-white background, regardless of the colour of the number plates fitted to the tow truck.
  • are the width of a motorcycle plate and slightly longer, with the words 'NSW Auxiliary' printed on it.

You must surrender your auxiliary number plate if your vehicle registration:

  • is cancelled.
  • if you lose either number plate, or
  • you surrender your tow truck operator licence.

You do not require authorisation from NSW Fair Trading to order or surrender tow truck auxiliary plates.

Your responsibilities as a tow truck operator

As a tow truck operator, it is your responsibility to ensure the tow truck's brake and indicator lights are visible to all whenever a vehicle is being carried in the cradle of a tow truck. This can be achieved with the use of portable lights affixed to the rear of the towed motor vehicle.

Ordering an auxiliary number plate

The cost of obtaining an auxiliary number plate is a one-off fee of $53 as per SNSW website. An auxiliary number plate can be ordered:

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