What are the requirements for winter tires in Europe?

Winter is a period when travel is often restricted and those who are forced to travel face unpleasant or even dangerous driving conditions. This is reason enough to pay attention to the equipment of your car. Some of them are recommended and some are mandatory. Different European countries have different rules.

Here are some permissions and restrictions that apply in different parts of Europe.

Austria

A “situational” rule applies to winter tires. This applies to vehicles weighing up to 3,5 tonnes. From November 1 to April 15, in winter conditions such as rain, snow or ice, vehicles with winter tires can drive on the roads. A winter tire means any inscription with the inscription M + S, MS or M & S, as well as a snowflake symbol.

Drivers with cars shod all-weather should pay attention to this rule. As an alternative to winter tires, chains can be installed on at least two drive wheels. This is applicable only when the sidewalk is covered with snow or ice. Areas for which it is obligatory to ride with a chain on are marked with the corresponding signs.

Belgium

There is no general rule to use winter tires. The use of identical M + S tires or winter tires on each axle is required. Chains are permitted on roads covered with snow or ice.

Germany

A “situational” rule applies to winter tires. On ice, snow, wet snow with ice, you can only ride when the tires are marked with the symbol M + S. It is even better to have a mountain symbol with a snowflake on the tire that indicates pure winter tires. Rubber marked M + S can be used until September 30, 2024. Spikes are prohibited.

Denmark

No obligation to drive with winter tires. Chains are allowed from November 1 to April 15.

Italy

Rules for using winter tires vary by province. For safety reasons, it is recommended that you ride with winter tires between October 15 and April 15 and learn about special rules in the region before traveling. Spike tires can be used from November 15 to March 15. In South Tyrol, winter tires are mandatory from November 15 to April 15.

Poland

There are no strict rules regarding winter tires. Chains are permitted only on roads covered with snow and ice. Sites where the use of the chain is mandatory are marked with the corresponding signs.

Slovenia

A general rule for mandatory winter tires is use from November 15 to March 15. Chains are allowed.

France

Regarding winter tires, there are no general rules. Under appropriate weather conditions, winter tires or chains may be required, but only in places temporarily marked with traffic signs. This mainly applies to mountain roads. A minimum profile of 3,5 millimeters is required. Chains can be used as an option.

Netherlands

There is no general rule for winter tires. Chains are allowed on completely snowy roads.

The Czech Republic

From November 1 to March 31, the situational rule for winter tires applies. Appropriate warning signs are posted on all roads.

Switzerland

No obligation to use winter tires. Despite this, drivers must be attentive to weather conditions and road conditions. In general, before traveling to an alpine country, it is recommended to replace tires with winter ones.