Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on the dashboard or sun visor, visible from the passenger seat. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
You meet people on the worst hour of their week, at the roadside, often at night, and they have no cash. When they want to thank you, you have had no simple way to say yes.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where tow truck drivers put the code
- On the dashboard or sun visor, visible from the passenger seat.
- On the back of your business card.
- On the clipboard or tablet the customer signs.
- On the door pocket on the passenger side.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Glad we could help. Tips are never expected and always appreciated. Scan here.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
Only if they ask: "You do not have to, but there is a code on the visor if you want."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code. Check your employer's policy and your motor club contract first: some forbid drivers from asking for tips, and a sign in the cab that you never mention usually sits within the rules.
What customers usually tip a tow truck driver
Tipping a tow truck driver in the US is optional. When people do, $5 to $20 is usual, depending on how difficult the job was.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Jump start, tyre change or lockout | $5 to $10 |
| Standard tow | $10 to $20 |
| Winch-out, late night or severe weather | $20 or more |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a tow truck driver without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a tow truck driver put a tip QR code?
On the dashboard or sun visor, visible from the passenger seat. On the back of your business card.
What should a tow truck driver's tip sign say?
Try: "Glad we could help. Tips are never expected and always appreciated. Scan here." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code. Check your employer's policy and your motor club contract first: some forbid drivers from asking for tips, and a sign in the cab that you never mention usually sits within the rules.