Brains
As ski season approaches, some North American skiers and winter sports enthusiasts are eyeing Europe’s world-class slopes in the Alps and Scandinavia. But navigating Europe’s roadways during the snowy season comes with unique rules — especially when it comes to winter tires. From strict regulations in Austria and Norway to more lenient guidances in other countries, knowing these requirements can make all the difference between a smooth journey to the slopes or a hefty fine.
So, if you are heading to Europe this winter and are planning to rent a car, here’s a breakdown of winter tire requirements across popular ski destinations in Europe.
Austria: Mandatory Winter Tires in Winter
Austria enforces one of the strictest winter tire policies in Europe. Between November 1 and April 15, vehicles are required to have winter tires when driving in snowy, icy, or slushy conditions. This rule isn’t limited to just alpine roads; it’s enforced throughout the country during winter weather. Failing to comply can lead to hefty fines, reaching up to €5,000 ($5,500) if you’re involved in an accident without proper tires. For the safest journey to ski areas like St. Anton, Sölden, or Ischgl, winter tires are a must.
Germany: Mandatory Winter Tires in Snowy Conditions
In Germany, winter tires are also mandatory in specific weather conditions. Although there’s no fixed season like Austria, they’re required when snow, ice, or frost is on the roads. Fines can reach up to €120 ($130) for driving in snowy or icy conditions without winter tires, and your insurance might not cover accidents if you’re found without them. A minimum tire profile of 1.6 mm (0.063 inches) is compulsory, while a tire profile of 4 mm (0.16 inches) is recommended. Popular German ski regions, such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Zugspitze, are best approached with winter tires from October through Easter to ensure full compliance and safety.
Switzerland: Strongly Recommended but Not Mandatory
Switzerland takes a more flexible approach, though it’s highly advisable to have winter tires. In snowy conditions, drivers without them may be fined and held liable if they are found obstructing traffic or involved in an accident. This liability rule means if you’re heading to premier Swiss ski destinations like Zermatt or St. Moritz, winter tires are a wise investment. Even if winter tires aren’t strictly required, the rule is that you must be in control of your vehicles at all times, therefore it’s an implied rule. Simply put, you won’t face an immediate fine for driving without them, but they’re essential for safe driving in alpine conditions and if you run into trouble, will be fined for not having them.
France: Mandatory in Alpine Regions
In France, new regulations mean that certain mountainous regions now require winter tires or snow chains between November 1 and March 31. Known as the “Mountain Law” or “Loi Montagne,” it mandates that drivers in 34 departments in the five major mountain regions of Vosges, Jura, Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, and Corsica, must equip their cars with winter tires or carry snow chains. Signage on roads will indicate where these regulations are in effect, so tourists driving through France’s mountainous regions should be prepared to comply. So if you are heading to Val d’Isere or Chamonix, make sure you have winter tires or snow chains as fines for non-compliance are €135 ($ 142).
Italy: Region-Dependent Rules
Italy also has a region-specific approach to winter tire rules. Certain provinces mandate winter tires or chains from November 15 to April 15, including popular skiing areas in the Dolomites like Cortina d’Ampezzo. Local authorities can adjust these dates depending on conditions. Because requirements vary by region, it’s crucial for tourists driving in Italy’s mountains to confirm whether winter tires are required along their planned route. Motorists not suitably equipped will incur financial penalties of between €80 ($84) and a maximum of €318 ($334).
Norway: Mandatory Winter Tires for Vehicles over 3.5 Tons
Norway has no mandatory winter tire rule for vehicles under 3.5 tons (such as standard cars) but requires them for heavier vehicles during winter. However, for winter road safety, nearly all vehicles in Norway are equipped with winter tires by the end of October. The country’s vast snow coverage and icy road conditions make winter tires essential for drivers navigating ski regions like Lillehammer or Hemsedal. Foreign cars are not subject to fines for lack of winter tires, but they are strongly recommended.
Sweden and Finland: Mandatory Winter Tires
Sweden and Finland require winter tires during the winter season. In Sweden, winter tires are compulsory from December 1 to March 31 under wintry conditions, and similar rules apply in Finland from November 1 to March 3*. If you’re driving to ski areas like Åre in Sweden or Levi in Finland, winter tires are a must. Failure to use them may result in fines or insurance issues in case of an accident.
If you are heading to Europe for a ski holiday and are renting a car, make sure to plan ahead and make sure winter tires are included in your package. Each country has distinct rules and while some have fines, others will impose insurance penalties if you’re in an accident. Note that even if your car is equipped with winter tires, that snow chains may be required in some alpine areas, such as in France or Italy, so it’s wise to keep a set handy.
