As temperatures drop and winter approaches, it's time to consider switching to winter tyres. For many European countries, winter tyres are more than just a safety recommendation; they're a legal requirement during the colder months. But the specific dates and regulations for mandatory winter tyres vary widely across Europe.
Here’s what you need to know about winter tyre laws in different European countries.
Winter tyres, also known as snow tyres, provide increased safety in snowy and icy conditions, offering better traction, handling, and braking compared to summer tyres. Winter tyres are specifically designed to perform well at temperatures below 7°C, thanks to their softer rubber compounds and tread patterns optimised for grip on snow and ice.
In some countries, it's recommended to switch to winter tyres from October through April. However, many European countries have stricter regulations, with defined periods when winter tyres are compulsory. If you're unsure about the laws in your area, it's best to check local requirements or consult with a tyre specialist.
Austria: Winter tyres are mandatory from 1 November to 15 April, with a minimum tread depth of 4.0 mm. Studded tyres are also permitted within the same period.
Finland: Winter tyres are required from 1 November to 31 March, depending on road conditions. Studded tyres are allowed within this period and must have a tread depth of at least 3.0 mm.
Germany: While Germany does not specify fixed dates, winter tyres are mandatory when driving in snowy or icy conditions. M+S marked tyres are accepted until 2024, after which the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol will be required for compliance.
Sweden: Winter tyres are required from 1 December to 31 March when winter conditions prevail. A minimum tread depth of 3.0 mm is enforced for winter tyres in Sweden.
In countries like France, Italy, and Czech Republic, winter tyres are only mandatory in specific regions or under certain conditions, such as in the presence of snow or ice, or as indicated by road signs. For instance, in France, winter tyres may be required in mountainous regions from 1 November to 31 March based on local prefectural orders.
Some countries, such as United Kingdom, Belgium, and Ireland, do not have nationwide mandates for winter tyres. However, it's recommended that drivers use winter tyres during the colder months to ensure optimal performance on icy and snow-covered roads.
Aside from switching to winter tyres, it's essential to pay attention to the legal tread depth requirements in your country. Most countries mandate a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm, although some, such as Austria and Finland, require up to 4.0 mm. Proper tyre inflation is also crucial for maintaining traction and handling on icy roads.
If you're uncertain about the specific regulations in your area, speak to a tyre specialist who can provide guidance on both legal requirements and safety considerations.
No, requirements vary by country, and some, like the UK, don’t have mandatory winter tyre laws.
While you can use summer tyres, they are not recommended due to reduced effectiveness on snow and ice.
