Winter Tyre Laws in Europe

When and where winter tyres become compulsory.

Fast Facts: When to Switch to Winter Tyres

• ❄️ Switch to winter tyres when temperatures drop below 7°C

• 📅 Generally advisable between October and April

• ⚖️ Some European countries require winter tyres by law

• 🔍 Look for the M+S or 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol on the tyre sidewall

• ✅ During the transition period until September 30, 2024, M+S tyres remain legally valid

Why winter tyres matter

When autumn arrives — leaves fall, the air turns crisp, and roads become slick — it’s time to prepare your vehicle for winter driving conditions. Fitting winter tyres (also known as snow tyres) is not just a matter of performance; in many European countries, it’s a legal requirement.

Winter tyres offer superior safety compared to summer tyres in cold weather. Their tread patterns, deeper grooves, and flexible rubber compounds deliver better grip, shorter braking distances, and greater stability on icy or snow-covered roads.

Even if not legally required where you live, fitting winter tyres is highly recommended whenever temperatures consistently drop below 7°C.

Where are winter tyres compulsory in Europe?

Winter tyre laws vary widely across Europe. Some countries enforce mandatory use, others have situational requirements (only under specific weather conditions), and a few simply recommend their use.

Here’s an overview of the general landscape:

• Mandatory winter tyres: Germany, Austria, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and parts of Eastern Europe

• Situational use: France, Italy, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Slovenia

• Recommended or voluntary: United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, and Denmark

These laws are designed to ensure greater safety for all road users during winter months.

Tip: If you’re driving across borders during winter, always check local regulations before your trip — non-compliance can result in fines or limited insurance coverage.

Recognising certified winter tyres

Winter tyres can be identified by markings on their sidewalls:

1. M+S (Mud and Snow) marking

Indicates that the tyre’s tread and compound provide improved traction in snow and mud compared to standard tyres.
However, this marking is based on design, not performance testing.

2. 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol

This symbol certifies that the tyre has passed standardised snow performance tests under EU and UNECE regulations, as well as US and Canadian standards.
It guarantees proven safety and control on snow and ice.

Since January 1, 2018, new winter and all-season tyres must display the 3PMSF symbol to meet international certification standards.

Until September 30, 2024, tyres with only the M+S marking still meet legal requirements during the transition period — but upgrading to 3PMSF tyres is highly recommended.

When to change to winter tyres

As a general guideline across Europe, the winter tyre season runs from October 1 to April 30 — roughly “from autumn to Easter.”

However, the exact timing varies by country and region.

• In Nordic countries, winter tyres are required from November to April, often depending on weather conditions.

• In Central Europe, such as Germany or Austria, laws require them during winter weather conditions, regardless of the date.

• In Southern Europe, winter tyres are often optional but still advisable in mountainous or high-altitude areas.

If you’re uncertain about the regulations in your area, your local tyre specialist or vehicle inspection centre will have the latest information.

Additional tyre regulations to consider

In addition to fitting winter tyres, European laws may also specify requirements for tread depth and pressure:

• Tread depth:

  • Minimum 1.6 mm in most EU countries

  • 4 mm recommended (and required in some, such as Austria and Nordic nations) for safe traction on snow and ice

• Tyre pressure:
  Check every two weeks during winter. Proper inflation ensures maximum grip, even braking, and consistent handling in cold conditions.

Always refer to your vehicle manufacturer’s manual for the correct pressure and load settings for winter conditions.

Key takeaway

Switching to winter tyres is not just about compliance — it’s about staying safe and in control when temperatures drop.

• Install 3PMSF-certified tyres before the first frost

• Replace all four tyres for balanced traction

• Monitor tread depth and air pressure regularly

• Follow local laws if driving across borders

By preparing early and understanding regional regulations, you’ll enjoy a safer, smoother, and more confident drive throughout the winter season.