Nationally Recognized Training for Today’s Professional Tow Operators
Whether you’re new to the towing industry or have decades of experience, the American Towing & Recovery Institute (ATRI) provides hands-on certification programs designed to improve safety, build confidence, reduce liability, and develop the next generation of towing professionals.
Every ATRI course combines classroom instruction with real-world, hands-on training taught by experienced instructors who have spent years in the towing and recovery industry.
Explore our nationally recognized certification programs below and discover which course is right for you.
Professional Towing Training for Every Stage of Your Career
The American Towing & Recovery Institute is a nationally recognized towing education institute dedicated to advancing safety, professionalism, and technical expertise within the towing and recovery industry. Through hands-on training, classroom instruction, and real-world scenarios, ATRI equips operators, instructors, and industry partners with the knowledge and skills needed to perform complex towing and recovery operations safely and effectively.
Our Training Programs
Explore ATRI’s nationally recognized certification programs designed to help tow operators build safer habits, strengthen technical skills, and advance their careers. Whether you’re just getting started or mastering advanced recovery techniques, there’s a program built for your next step.
8-Hour Light Duty Certification
Build a strong foundation in safe, professional towing techniques for passenger vehicles and light trucks. Perfect for new operators or anyone looking to refresh their core skills and earn a nationally recognized certification.
8-Hour Dual Certification – Light Duty & Electric Vehicle Awareness Certification
Combine two essential certifications in one day with hands-on training in light-duty towing and electric vehicle awareness. Learn the fundamentals of safe towing while preparing for the growing number of EVs on today’s roads.
2-Day Light & Medium Duty Certification
Expand your knowledge with hands-on training covering light-duty and medium-duty towing, recovery, and equipment operation. Ideal for operators ready to take the next step in their career.
2-Day Triple Certification – Light & Medium Duty with Electric Vehicle Awareness
Earn three valuable certifications in one comprehensive, hands-on training program. Build essential light and medium-duty towing skills while gaining the knowledge needed to safely handle today’s electric vehicles.
2-Day Heavy Duty
Gain the skills and confidence needed to safely tow and recover heavy trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles. Learn proven techniques from experienced instructors through classroom and hands-on training.
3-Day Advance Heavy Duty with Rotator
Master advanced recovery techniques using rotators, rigging, and complex recovery strategies. Designed for experienced operators looking to elevate their heavy-duty recovery expertise.
Leadership Training
Develop the leadership, communication, and decision-making skills needed to lead yourself and teams with confidence. Designed for current and future leaders looking to strengthen workplace culture and drive long-term success.
Host A Towing Certification Class In Your Area
Bring ATRI’s nationally recognized training directly to your facility or community. Partner with us to provide professional, hands-on certification programs that help strengthen your team and support the local towing industry.
Why Professional Training Matters
The towing and recovery industry is evolving rapidly. Today’s tow operators face more complex vehicles, advanced recovery techniques, evolving safety regulations, and higher customer expectations than ever before. Professional training is no longer optional—it’s an investment in safety, confidence, and long-term success.
At the American Towing & Recovery Institute (ATRI), we combine classroom instruction with hands-on training to help operators build the knowledge and skills needed to perform their jobs safely and professionally. From roadside assistance and heavy-duty recovery to electric vehicle awareness and leadership development, our programs prepare students for real-world challenges they face every day.
Investing in professional training benefits more than the individual operator. Companies that prioritize education often experience improved safety, reduced liability, greater operational efficiency, stronger employee retention, and increased customer confidence.
As vehicle technology and industry standards continue to evolve, ongoing education remains essential. ATRI is committed to preparing today’s towing professionals for the challenges of tomorrow—because professional training isn’t just about earning a certification. It’s about returning home safely, protecting the people and property entrusted to you, and advancing the towing and recovery industry one operator at a time.
Why Choose ATRI?
ATRI is more than a training provider—we’re committed to advancing the towing and recovery industry through practical education, experienced instruction, and a focus on safety. Here’s what sets our programs apart.
Nationally Recognized Certifications
Hands-On Training
Experienced Industry Instructors
Safety-Focused Curriculum
Modern Vehicle Technology
Training for Individuals & Companies
Who Should Attend?
New Tow Operators
Experienced Tow Operators
Heavy-Duty Recovery Professionals
Fleet & Tow Company Owners
Municipal & Government Fleets
Insurance & Recovery Professionals
Fire, Police & First Responders (where applicable)
Anyone looking to build safer, more professional towing operations
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ATRI certifications nationally recognized?
Yes. ATRI certifications are recognized throughout the towing and recovery industry and are designed to help operators improve safety, professionalism, and technical expertise. Many towing companies, municipalities, and industry organizations trust ATRI training as part of their professional development programs.
Who should attend ATRI training?
Our programs are designed for tow operators of all experience levels, from those just entering the industry to experienced professionals looking to expand their knowledge. We also offer leadership training for current and future supervisors, managers, and business owners.
Do I need previous towing experience?
Not always. Some courses, such as our Light Duty Certification, are ideal for newer operators, while advanced recovery classes are intended for those with prior towing and recovery experience. Each course page explains who the program is best suited for.
What should I bring to class?
Students should bring a writing utensil, note paper, and the appropriate clothing for hands-on. Hands-on training includes everything that a student would be doing in the field, so all PPE gear should be brought with them. This can include: hard hat, gloves, protective glasses/goggles, and steel toed boots.
Are your classes hands-on?
Absolutely. ATRI combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on exercises that allow students to apply what they’ve learned using real equipment and realistic recovery scenarios.
Does ATRI offer training for electric vehicles (EVs)?
Yes! We partner with towing companies, associations, municipalities, equipment dealers, and industry organizations across the country to host certification classes. Hosting a class is a great way to bring professional training directly to your team and surrounding operators. In the near future, we will be offering this class online!
Where are ATRI classes held?
ATRI conducts training throughout the United States at partner facilities, towing companies, dealerships, industry events, and association conferences. Visit our Upcoming Classes page to find training near you.
How do I register for a class?
Registering is easy. Simply visit our Upcoming Classes page, select the class you want to attend, and complete your registration online.
Have more questions?
Our team is here to help. Contact ATRI and we’ll be happy to answer your questions, recommend the right training program, or discuss hosting a class in your area.
