Winter tyres and snow chains in Europe — where they are compulsory
Country comparison
Correct for the 2026/2027 season. Rules change, so check the national source before travelling.
| Country | Winter tyres | Chains |
|---|---|---|
| Austria | Required 1 Nov – 15 Apr in wintry conditions | Required where signed |
| Germany | Condition-based, not date-based | Required where signed |
| Italy | Varies by stretch, typically 15 Nov – 15 Apr | Accepted instead of winter tyres |
| Switzerland | No formal rule, but liability in a crash | Required where signed |
| France | Loi Montagne: mandatory in designated mountain communes | Accepted instead of tyres |
| Czechia | Required with snow, ice or frost | Required where signed |
| Poland | No legal requirement | No requirement |
Note the contrast between Austria and Germany. Austria states dates; Germany does not — there the condition of the road decides. A German driver on summer tyres in snow is fined whatever the month.
What the chain sign means
The round blue sign showing a tyre in a chain is not a suggestion. Beyond it, driving without chains is an offence even on winter tyres and even when the road looks clear.
- Chains go on the driven axle.
- On four-wheel drive, usually the rear — unless the handbook says otherwise.
- Maximum speed on chains is 50 km/h.
Practise fitting them in a garage, not on a pass at minus five in the wind.
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