Tow trucks do not usually need your keys to tow a vehicle. While giving them to the driver can make the process easier (allowing them to put the car in neutral, unlock the steering wheel, or disable the parking brake), skilled tow operators can still move your vehicle without keys—using specialized equipment like dollies, flatbeds, skates, or winches 

🔧 How Towing Works Without Keys

1. Wheel Lift Tow Trucks

  • Lift the drive wheels (front or rear) off the ground, leaving the opposite end rolling.

  • Steering wheel lock may be bypassed with the wheels straightened ahead .

2. Flatbed Towing

  • A winch or dollies load the car onto the flatbed without needing to start the engine or turn wheels .

3. Wheel Dollies / “Skates”

  • Placed under wheels to lift them entirely, preventing transmission or drivetrain damage—especially crucial for AWD or locked vehicles 

🛠🏁 Real-World Insights (from Reddit)

“Tow truck drivers need to be able to put a vehicle into neutral… steering wheel might be locked.” 
“For AWD they use tire dollies. Add tire dollies on the back and pick the front…” 

✅ When Keys Help—or Don’t

Reasons to hand over your keys:

  • Enables quick neutral shifting and steering unlock.

  • Lets the driver complete simple on-site services (jump starts, tire changes).

  • Simplifies loading/unloading—speeding up the job.

Reasons to keep your keys:

  • You’re uncomfortable handing them over.

  • The operator has the tools to perform the tow regardless.

  • You prefer to remain near your vehicle during service.

Final Take

  • Not mandatory: Tow trucks don’t need keys to tow your vehicle.

  • Helpful but optional: Providing keys can make the job smoother but isn’t a requirement. Professionals can efficiently tow without them, using dollies and flatbeds.

  • Tip: Leave your wheels straight and brakes disengaged—whether or not you hand over your keys.