Your friends on the freeway

Orange County freeways can be stressful even in ideal conditions—but when traffic and a vehicle issue strike, you may need help fast. That’s where the Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) steps in. FSP is a special team of tow trucks that patrols Orange County freeways during peak commute hours to assist motorists with disabled vehicles. You can also call 511 and select Motorist Assistance for on-freeway help, including FSP, during FSP operating hours. The goal: keep traffic moving and reduce congestion by assisting with minor roadside repairs and clearing disabled vehicles.

Best of all, FSP services are free. Drivers offer essential help—from jump-starts and tire changes to providing a gallon of gas—and can tow vehicles to a safe location off the freeway if needed where motorists can seek additional assistance, if necessary, all at no cost.

Launched in 1992, FSP is a partnership between the Orange County Transportation Authority, Caltrans, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP). OCTA manages the program, while CHP provides dispatch, oversees the operation of the contracted tow companies, and field support when law enforcement is required.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Motorist Services at MotoristServices@octa.net.

Frequently Asked Questions

Because there are always questions, here are some answers to the basic questions we hear the most.

• What services can the Orange County FSP provide?

  If your vehicle stops running, the FSP can help by:

  • Offering you a gallon of gas if you ran out
  • Jump start your dead battery
  • Refill your radiator and make minor hose repairs
  • Change a flat tire 
   
• What if the FSP can’t get my vehicle running?

  It will be towed from the freeway free of charge to a pre-designated on-street location.

• If my vehicle is towed to one of these locations, will the FSP help me get to a phone?

  Yes. The FSP will take you to the nearest phone so you can notify a friend, relative or auto club.

• How will I recognize the FSP?

  All FSP tow trucks are white with the FSP logo on the doors. Drivers wear blue uniforms and bright yellow-green safety vests with the FSP logo.

• Are Orange County FSP drivers certified?

  Yes. Drivers receive their certification only after completing a CHP training program.

• Can the FSP tow me to a private repair facility?

  No. FSP only tows vehicles to locations identified by the CHP. The FSP is not permitted to recommend other tow companies or repair facilities.

• Which freeways do the Orange County FSP patrol?

  Check the map for FSP coverage..

• What happens if FSP is unavailable or if my needs are beyond what FSP may provide?

  If FSP service is unavailable or if the need is beyond what the FSP provides, 511 may assist a motorist by helping to arrange service through their Club Towing, the CHP Rotation Tow program, or by contacting a Friend or Family Member.

• What Is The CHP Rotation Tow program?

  The CHP Rotation Tow Program allows licensed and approved members of the towing industry to participate in a rotational tow list managed through the California Highway Patrol. The purpose of the program is to equitably distribute highway-related service calls from the public when other services are not available or appropriate and ensure that the public receives ethical and fair treatment from private tow companies who participate in the program.

  The CHP Rotation Tow Program services are available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year.

  There is a charge for Rotation Tow Program services. Rotation Tow providers are to make rates available to customers upon request. PLEASE REQUEST SERVICE RATES WHEN THE ROTATION TOW PROVIDER ARRIVES.

  Tow operators are not required to accept checks but are required by law to accept a valid credit or debit card.

  To learn more about the CHP Rotation Tow Program, please visit chp.ca.gov.