Winter tires in European countries - a guide to the rules

For many of us, winter is a perfect time to travel - both near and far. Regardless of whether we want to "overwinter" in a warmer climate or indulge in the pleasure of skiing on an Italian glacier - we often have a long way to cross Europe.

In the colder months and with sometimes extremely unfavorable weather conditions, we must remember to adapt to local regulations regarding the technical compatibility of our vehicles - including seasonal tires.

Winter tires - mandatory in Europe

Different European countries have different regulations regarding the obligation to use winter tires/chains. Regulations often evolve and it is not easy to stay informed always and everywhere. Today we will show you what it looks like among our western neighbors.

Winter tires - Austria

Winter tires in Austria and Germany are not a statutory necessity in winter conditions, but the obligation to use them applies to all drivers in the event of winter road conditions in the period from November 1 to April 15 (snow, ice, black ice). In addition, special signs may require the use of snow chains. The fine for failure to comply with the regulations may be up to PLN 5,000. EUR.

Winter tires - France

France - from November 1 to March 31, the use of winter tires (minimum profile height 3.5 mm) is mandatory in mountainous regions (Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central) and in Corsica. The obligation may also be introduced in other regions/roads under individual regulations and through the use of appropriate road signs (mountain, tire and chain pictogram and the inscription ZONE/FIN DE ZONE).
Since its entry into force in November 2021, a new tariff of offenses has also been in force - failure to comply with the obligation to use winter tires may result in a fine of EUR 135 and a driving ban.

Winter tires - Switzerland

Interestingly, road traffic regulations do not explicitly require the use of winter tires in a mountainous country like Switzerland. In the event of tires not being adapted to weather conditions and a possible collision, the police may decide to take part in the accident - so in practice it is worth choosing winter tires. Signs inform about the chains.

Winter tires - Italy

The regulations are also inconsistent in Italy. Individual provinces may establish their own regulations in this regard. Please pay attention to signs (especially regarding the obligation to use chains). However, if our destination or transit route is South Tyrol, we absolutely must remember about winter shoes for our car from November 15 to April 15. Tires marked M+S are also treated as winter tires. Similarly, we must remember to use appropriate tires on the Brenner motorway (A22) to Affi. In the Aostatal Valley this period lasts even from October 15 (also until April 15). If in doubt, be sure to check the regulations in your province. The penalty in the event of insubordination is severe and may range from EUR 87 to EUR 345.

Winter tires - Slovakia

In Slovakia, drivers must have seasonal tires in case of winter weather. Chains are not mandatory. A fine for failure to comply with applicable regulations will reduce our budget by EUR 60.

Winter tires - Czech Republic

In the Czech Republic, the obligation to use winter tires on all axles (for vehicles under 3.5 tons) or only on the drive axle (over 3.5 tons) applies from November 1 to March 31. All-season tires marked M+S are sufficient. The height of the tire profile (tread) must be min. 4 mm for cars up to 3.5 tons and 6 mm above this GVM. Please remember about the fine scale, which ranges from EUR 55-92.

Winter tires - Estonia

The situation in Estonia is slightly different. The requirement to have winter tires applies to all vehicles in the period from December 1 to March 1. The minimum permitted tread thickness is 3 mm. Interestingly, the statutory period may be extended depending on the weather situation and start in October and end in April.

Winter tires - Lithuania

Travelers in Lithuania must remember about the statutory obligation and winter tires from December 1 to March 1. It applies to all vehicles with a GVW of up to 3.5 tons and their trailers. The minimum permitted tread in this case is 4 mm.

Winter tires - Croatia

In Croatia, certain sections and roads may require the use of winter tires due to the winter weather and road conditions. In such a case, drivers must remember to use at least 2 winter tires on the drive axle (required profile height is 4 mm).

Winter tires - Norway

Norway does not have general regulations requiring the use of winter tires for cars up to 3.5 tons. Vehicles equipped with summer tires must be equipped with snow chains in winter conditions (snow + ice). Winter tires must have at least 3 mm of tread. Vehicles heavier than 3.5 tons, including trailers, are required to have winter tires from November 15 to March 15. From the 2020/21 season, the tread thickness must be at least 5 mm, and there must be a pictogram with a mountain on the side of the tire.

Winter tires - Finland

In Finland, from November 1 to March 31, winter tires (marked M+S) are mandatory for all vehicles (including those registered abroad) in winter conditions. In the case of harnesses, this provision also applies to braked trailers. The minimum tread thickness is 3 mm, while the recommended thickness is 5 mm.

Winter tires - Sweden

Sweden requires drivers to use seasonal tires marked M+S in both cars and trailers from October 1 to March 31. The tread thickness for vehicles up to 3.5 tons must be at least 3 mm, while heavier vehicles must have a minimum profile of 5 mm.

Regardless of the country you are going to, it is worth checking local regulations to avoid unpleasant surprises and possible fines. Detailed control and depletion of holiday funds is unnecessary stress.

Road traffic rules in Europe

Regardless of whether we are traveling around Europe in a passenger car, camper or caravan, it is worth having easy access to a complete database of regulations in force in a given country.

Go to our current database of road traffic regulations in Europe divided into as many as 31 countries. This information is provided, among others: in the form of convenient tables.