Tyres > Help > Tyres Help > Are winter tyres mandatory?
Are winter tyres mandatory in the UK?
No, winter tyres are not mandatory in the UK. However, they can be helpful in improving your vehicle's traction and handling in cold, snowy, or icy conditions.
Do you need winter tyres in Scotland?
Scotland is known for its cold and snowy winters, especially in the Highlands. Using winter tyres in scotland can be a good idea if you live in a rural or hilly area where the roads may not be gritted as often.
Do you need winter tyres in England?
Winter tyres are not strictly necessary in England. The winters are generally milder than in Scotland. However, if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow or ice, or if you have to travel frequently in cold conditions, winter tyres can be beneficial.
Do you need winter tyres in Wales?
Wales generally has milder winters, but some parts of the country can experience snow and ice. If you live in one of these areas or if you frequently travel in cold conditions, winter tyres may be worth considering.
Which European countries require winter tyres?
Several European countries require the use of winter tyres during certain times of the year. Some countries may have different regulations based on the weather conditions or the type of road you are driving on, so it's important to check the specific requirements for each country.
Are winter tyres mandatory in Switzerland?
There are no specific laws in Switzerland concerning the use of winter tyres. However, in the case of an accident, if a motorist does not have winter tyres fitted to his/her vehicle they have a far greater chance of receive the responsibility of any damage incurred from the collision.
Are winter tyres compulsory in Italy?
Winter tyres are not compulsory in Italy. However, if local signs indicate that snow chains should be carried in the vehicle, you are required to do so.
One region which differs is the Val d'Aosta area (in the north-west of the country). From the 15th of October to the 15th of April vehicles must be either fitted with winter tyres or snow chains.
Are winter tyres needed in Germany?
According to the law, motorists must have winter tyres (that bear the M+S symbol) if they are driving on snow, black ice or roads covered in frost.
If you are caught driving in these conditions without the appropriate tyres fitted, you are likely to be fined €60. This amount will be doubled if you are the reason for any delays to traffic. You will also lose one point on your driving license.
Are winter tyres compulsory in France?
As a general rule, the fitting of winter tyres is not compulsory. There are however, certain regions in the mountains that will indicate when the use of winter tyres is necessary.
Do I need winter tyres in the French Alps?
If you are planning to drive in the French Alps during the winter, winter tyres or snow chains are recommended. Some mountain passes may require the use of snow chains.
Are winter tyres mandatory in the Netherlands?
No, winter tyres are not mandatory in the Netherlands. However, if you frequently travel in cold or snowy conditions, using winter tyres can improve your safety on the road.
Are winter tyres required in Belgium?
Winter tyres are not mandatory in Belgium, but they are recommended in areas that experience snow or ice. Some regions may require the use of snow chains instead.
Are winter tyres mandatory in Norway?
Surprisingly, winter tyres are not compulsory here. That is unless there is ice or snow covering the roads. In this case winter tyres or tyres with snow chains fitted must be used.
Are winter tyres compulsory in Austria?
Yes, winter tyres are mandatory in Austria during certain times of the year, usually from November to April. Failure to use winter tyres during this time can result in fines.