They differ significantly. Therefore, every Russian motorist who travels to Europe in his car needs to know these nuances in order to avoid a fine, which is often quite impressive.

About winter tires in Germany

According to German laws, the car must be ready for winter weather conditions, whether it be snow, ice, frost. It doesn't matter if it's warm outside. Strict German policemen have the right to fine a driver who uses wheels that do not match the weather conditions. Tires in winter should be winter or all-weather tires with.

If a driver using summer tires causes an accident, the insurance company has the right to refuse material payments in full, because. the lack of winter tires could have caused the accident.

Austria and winter tires

In Austria winter season starts from November 1st and lasts until April 15th. All tires with a tread depth of less than 4 mm are considered summer tires in Austria. The fine for using summer tires is an impressive amount - up to 5,000 euros. When you get into an accident - a repetition of the German version.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, the use of winter tires is optional, but recommended. In the event of an accident in winter on summer tires, the insurance company will also argue that winter tires could have prevented the situation, and that the car owner is to blame for a car with summer tires. Accordingly, refuse to pay insurance.

Denmark

The harsh winter conditions in Denmark force drivers to use winter tires without additional coercion. Although there are no requirements in Danish laws.

Norway

Norwegian law does not require the use of winter tires specifically, but it is mandatory "tire with a good degree of grip and a tread depth of at least 3 mm". In the event of an accident, the Norwegian police make an individual decision for each case, taking into account all the circumstances.

Finland

In the difficult climatic conditions of Finland, the use of winter tires is mandatory during the period from 1 December to 1 March. The tread depth must be at least 3 mm. In case of non-compliance with these requirements, the police has the right to collect a fine.

Great Britain

In the UK there are no laws requiring the use of winter tires. Motorists visiting the snowy regions and continental Europe themselves disciplinedly “change shoes” of their iron horses into winter tires.

France

France recommends the use of winter tires and chains in the southeastern, eastern and northern regions of the country. The use of winter tires is not legally established, but in the event of an accident, the lack of suitable rubber is interpreted not in favor of the driver.

Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg

The Benelux countries have not yet legalized the use of winter tires for cars, but the harsh winters of past years have forced local motorists to stock up on winter tires.

Sweden

In Sweden The obligatory period for using winter tires is valid from 1 December to 31 March, but it only applies to secondary and country roads covered with snow and slush. This requirement does not apply to tourists traveling in Sweden, unless their vehicles have a tread depth of at least 3 mm.

Estonia

In Estonia, the use of winter tires Mandatory from December 1st to April 1st, the period may be adjusted depending on weather conditions.

Lithuania

Latvia

In Latvia, it is prescribed for drivers of cars with a gross weight of not more than 3.5 tons to use winter tires with a tread depth of at least 3 mm in the period from December 1 to February 23. This rule also applies to tourists.

Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary

The legislation of most of the listed countries does not oblige, but recommends the use of winter tires, however:

In Hungary, every motorist must have a kit snow chains.
In Slovakia, wear winter shoes from November 15 to March 31 if the roads are icy or snowing.
In the Czech Republic - on roads with the sign "Winter equipment" it is mandatory to have winter tires in the period from November 1 to April 30.

Romania

In Romania, there is a season for using winter shoes for cars, it lasts from November 1st to March 1st. During this period, in addition to winter tires, it is necessary to have snow chains for all passenger cars with more than 9 seats and trucks weighing more than 3.5 tons. For violation of driving rules, a fine of 600 - 1000 euros can be collected and a driver's license can be withdrawn.

Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro

In these countries, you can drive on summer tires, provided that the tread depth is at least 4 mm or the presence of snow chains.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Here you can use summer tires with snow chains installed on them or winter tires with a tread depth of at least 4 mm. Period of use from November 15 to April 15.

Croatia

There is an official winter season in Croatia, during which it is necessary to use winter tires on drive wheels or summer tires with a radial pattern on all wheels and a tread depth of at least 4 mm. The equipment of the car must have snow chains, which must be used when the snow is at least 5 cm deep or icy.

Slovenia

In Slovenia, the winter season lasts from November 15 to March 15 The timing depends on weather conditions. Winter tires are obligatory, but they can only be used on the wheels of the drive axle.

Spain and Italy

Spain and Italy do not have a law prohibiting the use of summer tires in winter, but the use of winter tires and chains is recommended for some northern regions of the country. In Spain, on snowy and icy roads, it is allowed to use studs during the period from November 15 to March 31.

Turkey

Turkish law does not require the use of winter tires, but it does require the car to be ready for winter weather conditions. This means that in winter conditions, the car must have either winter tires or chains.

Russia

Russia has not yet introduced a law on the use of winter tires, despite the harsh climatic conditions. Only a new technical regulation has been introduced for the tread depth in winter - at least 4mm.

Beware the spikes!

Usage studded rubber allowed in the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Estonia, Slovenia, Lithuania and Finland.
It is strictly forbidden to use spikes in the following countries: Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, France, partly in Spain.

win Michelin tires and Wolfrace wheels!

Photo: Arno Mikkor

Before heading to Europe in winter, check local regulations regarding the use of winter tires. After all, despite the fact that in many European countries winter tires are optional, entry to some tracks on summer tires or without snow chains may be prohibited. This article contains general information about the rules for the use of winter tires in Europe.

European standards

So far, the emergence of a common set of rules that would operate throughout Europe is not expected. However, in 1992, the EU adopted a common definition of M+S winter tires (Directive 92/23 EEC, II Amendment), which reads as follows: “tires whose tread depth and structure provide the best driving performance of a car on slush or covered fresh or melting snow sections of the track.

The profile of the M+S tires features larger longitudinal grooves and/or lugs that are more spaced than conventional tires.” But if you believe this definition, many of today's winter tires are not - such as the ContiWinterContact TS 810 Sport rubber with an asymmetric tread pattern that provides reliable grip on the road. Nothing is said about the composition of the rubber compound, which plays an important role in winter conditions. But from the definition, you can understand what the snowflake sign means, which is applied to most winter tires. This badge can only be marked with tires that, on a snowy track, provide a 7% improvement in braking with ABS turned on compared to conventional tires with the M + S marking.

ANDORRA
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.
spikes
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.
chains
When there is an appropriate road sign, the use of chains is mandatory.

AUSTRIA
Winter tires
In Austria, the use of winter tires is mandatory from November 1 to April 15, with all tires with a tread depth of less than 4 mm considered as summer tires. Some trails may require snow chains.
For vehicles of categories M2 and M3 (passenger transportation of more than eight passengers), it is mandatory to use winter tires at least on the drive axle from November 1 to March 15. For vehicles of categories No. 2, No. 3 (freight vehicles with a gross weight of more than 3.5 tons) from November 1 to April 15.
Under appropriate weather conditions (snow, rain with snow or ice) for vehicles with a gross weight of 3.5 tons or less (M1 / No. 1), from November 1 to April 15, winter tires must be on all axles or on the drive axle must be wearing chains.
The use of chains is allowed only if the roads are covered with a layer of snow or the roads are icy. Fines can range from €35.00 to €5,000.00.
The minimum profile depth is 4 mm for winter radial tires and 5 mm for diagonal tires. For commercial vehicles - in 5 and 6 mm, respectively.

spikes
Studded tires are only allowed for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons, with a speed limit of 100 km/h on autobahns and 80 km/h on other roads.

chains
Chains must be used if indicated by the appropriate road sign. In this case, studded tires must also be equipped with snow chains.

BELGIUM
Winter tires
Although Belgium is not very rich in winter resorts, sometimes winter tires are still recommended: in the mountainous regions and on the border with Germany, it often snows in winter, and in the west, low temperatures are not uncommon. All this significantly increases the braking distance. Winter tires are optional in these countries.

spikes
Studded tires are allowed from 1 November to 31 March with a speed limit of 90 km/h on motorways and 60 km/h on other roads for vehicles with a GVW of 3.5 tonnes or less.

chains

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory between 15 November and 15 April. As an alternative, summer tires with chains can be used.

spikes

chains
Between November 1 and April 15, the driver must always have chains and a shovel in the car. And at least one set of chains must be put on the drive axle.

BULGARIA
Winter tires
Bulgaria

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
From November 1 to March 31, the driver must constantly carry chains in the car, at least on the drive axle. Chains must be used if indicated by a road sign.

GREAT BRITAIN
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are generally permitted. Condition: Studded tires must not damage the road surface.

chains
Chains may only be used on snow or ice-covered roads.

HUNGARY
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

Studs Studded tires are not permitted.

chains
In winter, the driver must carry chains in the vehicle at all times. If the road sign "Chains are required" is installed at the border, the vehicle can only cross the border if there are chains on board. When using chains, the speed is limited to 50 km/h. At least one drive axle must be equipped with chains.

If the chains are used unnecessarily (on a dry road), the driver can be fined.

GREECE
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires may be used if weather conditions require it.

chains
Chains may be used if weather conditions require it.

GERMANY
Winter tires
Winter tires have become mandatory in Germany since December 1, 2010. This is required by a new addition to the rules of the road: drivers are required to use in icy, snow, sleet, or otherwise, only tires that comply with EU regulations 92/23/EWG. Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of 40 euros.
What type of winter tires should be used is not an unambiguous question and is still debatable. The regulations 92/23/EWG are considered obsolete by many. According to some experts, under adverse environmental conditions, it is necessary to use tires with the designation M + S or all-weather. The depth of the profile must be at least 1.6 mm. Other experts believe that the M + S marking is not enough: there must also be a “snowflake” and a profile depth of at least 4 mm.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Tires of the drive axle of the tractor must be equipped with chains, if indicated by a road sign (the requirement applies only to vehicles with more than two wheels). The maximum speed must not exceed 50 km/h. Snow chains are also permitted on trailers.

DENMARK
Winter tires
In Denmark, you can use winter tires, but this is not required. “Spikes” are allowed, although you probably won’t feel much benefit from them on the country’s tracks. At low temperatures, winter tires are recommended.

spikes
From 1 November to 1 April, studded tires are allowed with a speed limit of 110 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads. All tires must be studded, in the case of a double assembly, at least one of the two tires.

chains
Use is not allowed.

ITALY
Winter tires
Winter tires can be omitted, although for some tracks it is still recommended. In winter, we still do not recommend traveling around Italy without winter tires.

spikes
If you have studded tires, you should be aware of the speed limits - 90 km / h outside the city and 50 km / h in the city.

chains
There are no specific instructions for the use of snow chains.

ICELAND
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory between November 1st and April 14th. These dates may vary from year to year.

spikes
-
chains
-

IRELAND
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires can be used with speed limits up to 112 km/h on motorways and 96 km/h on other roads.

chains
Can be used in severe weather conditions.

SPAIN
Winter tires

spikes
Studded tires can only be used from 15 November to 31 March on snowy or icy roads.

chains
Only if there is an appropriate road sign.

LATVIA
Winter tires
Winter tires in Latvia are mandatory for all vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3.5 tons from 1 December to 1 March.

chains
Chains are optional but may be used in case of snow and ice.

LITHUANIA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5t from 10 November to 1 April. Minimum tire profile depending on vehicle category:
- M2-2 mm (from November 10 to April 1 - 3 mm);
- M3-2 mm; * No. 2 and No. 3-1 mm;
- O3 and O4-1 mm (trailers).

chains
Chains are optional but may be used in case of snow and ice.

LUXEMBOURG
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is optional, but recommended in winter. The fine for an accident caused by the lack of winter tires reaches 145 Euros. In the event of an accident, the lack of winter tires also affects the allocation of liability for damages.
If the speed ratio of winter tires is not sufficient for the speed of the vehicle, these tires cannot be used from 1 April to 30 October.

spikes
Studded tires can be used with a speed limit from 1 December to 31 March. This applies to vehicles with a GVW of up to 3.5 tonnes as well as special vehicles and buses.

chains
Chains may only be used on snowy or icy roads.

MACEDONIA
Winter tires
Winter tires are optional. If they are nevertheless used, the profile must be at least 5 mm. If the car is equipped with winter tires, the use of chains for city driving is not necessary.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The chains must be on board the vehicle between 15 October and 15 March.
In the event of heavy snowfall, the driving axle of the vehicle must be equipped with chains.
This requirement is not mandatory for trailers or semi-trailers.

NETHERLANDS
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The use of chains on the road is prohibited.

NORWAY
Winter tires
In case of winter weather conditions, all vehicles must have winter tires, with or without studs, with a minimum profile of 3 mm. As an alternative, summer tires with chains can be used.
The requirement does not apply to foreign vehicles, but is recommended due to liability in the event of an accident.

spikes
The use of studded tires is prohibited between the first Monday after Easter and until October 31, unless weather conditions require it.
In Nordland, Tromso and Finnmark, use is allowed between 15 October and 1 May with a speed limit of 90 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads. The authorities may establish exceptions to the rules. At the same time, for vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3.5 tons, studded tires are installed on all wheels.

chains
The use of chains is prohibited between the first Monday after Easter and until October 31, unless weather conditions require it. In Nordland, Tromso and Finnmark, use is allowed between 15 October and 1 May with a speed limit of 90 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads. The authorities may establish exceptions to the rules.
For vehicles with a gross weight of more than 3.5 tons, there must be at least three chains: one for the front wheel and two for the drive axle. A vehicle with twin wheels must be equipped with four chains per drive axle.

POLAND
Winter tires
Winter tires are optional. However, given that the work of snow removal services is far from perfect, traveling around Poland on summer tires can be risky. In addition, Article 66.1 of the Road Traffic Law states that every vehicle must be built, equipped and maintained in such a way as not to endanger either passengers or other road users.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains

PORTUGAL
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The presence of chains is not mandatory, except when indicated by a traffic sign. In this case, at least the driving axle must be equipped with chains.

ROMANIA
Winter tires
Romania does not yet have laws governing the use of winter tires, but the Ministry of Transport has said that drivers will soon be required to fit their vehicles with the appropriate set of tires for the period from November 1 to March 31. The new law will come into force in 2011.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Chains are not mandatory, but may be declared necessary under certain weather conditions.

SERBIA
Winter tires
Winter tires must have a profile of at least 4 mm.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

SLOVAKIA
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires. However, in the event of an accident, the lack of winter tires is an important argument for allocating liability for damages.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Chains are optional.

SLOVENIA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5t from 15 November to 15 March. Dates may be extended due to difficult weather conditions.
Minimum requirements for vehicles and couplings over 3.5t: The vehicle must be equipped with either winter tires or radial tires with a tread depth of at least 4mm.
Summer tires with chains are allowed.
According to Slovenian law, two winter tires per car are sufficient. It is still recommended to install the complete set.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The presence of chains on board the vehicle is mandatory if summer tires are used.
All-wheel drive vehicles must be equipped with chains on the rear axle.
A shovel must be available on board every vehicle.

FINLAND
Winter tires
From 1 December until the end of February, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles weighing no more than 3.5 tonnes.
The profile must be at least 3 mm.
Since 1999, this law has also been applied to foreign vehicles.

spikes
Studded tires are allowed with a speed limit of 100 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads from 1 November to 31 March. In this case, all four wheels must be equipped with spikes.

chains
It is not necessary to have on board the vehicle.

FRANCE
Winter tires
In France, it is not necessary to change tires to winter tires, but in the event of an accident, the lack of winter tires is an important argument for allocating liability for damage. Despite the fact that there is no law on the need for winter tires in France, you should not appear in the Alps without it.

spikes
Passenger cars must be equipped with studded tires (from the beginning of November to the end of March, while the speed in built-up areas should not exceed 50 km/h, and outside built-up areas - 90 km/h). If there are spikes, a special sticker should be placed on the glass.

chains
Some trails (they are marked with special signs) may require snow chains. In some cases chains are obligatory (on some mountain passes).

CROATIA
Winter tires
In winter, the vehicle must be equipped with at least two winter tires (M + S) per drive axle or summer tires with a radial pattern on all wheels.
The minimum profile is 4 mm.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
In winter, the presence of a shovel and chains on board the vehicle is mandatory, at least a set for the drive axle.
Chains should only be used when necessary, if the weather conditions require it (snow depth of at least 5 cm or road icing).

CZECH
Winter tires
The use of winter tires may be mandatory if there is a relevant traffic sign on the side of the road (for example, on the D 1 autobahn) from 1 November to 1 April.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Mandatory if there is an appropriate road sign. The drive axle must be equipped with a set of chains.
The maximum speed is 50 km / h.

chains
As an alternative, chains are allowed in winter.

SWITZERLAND
Winter tires
In Switzerland, winter tires can also be omitted. However, their use is recommended, since drivers using summer tires may be found guilty of an accident if the use of winter tires would have avoided it.
In general, the use of winter tires is considered good form in Switzerland.
The use of winter tires may be mandatory on some roads, provided there is a sign to that effect.

spikes
Spikes and chains are at the discretion of the driver, however, on some tracks they may be mandatory. On most autobahns, studded tires are prohibited, in addition, if they are available, the speed limit is 50 km / h in the city and 80 km / h outside it.

chains
The use of chains is mandatory when there is a road sign. Snowfall in the Alps can also happen in summer.

ESTONIA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is obligatory from 1 December until the end of February, although depending on weather conditions, the “season” may start earlier or end later than the deadline.

spikes
The use of studded tires with a speed limit of up to 90 km/h is allowed from November 1 to May 1 only for vehicles with a gross weight of not more than 3.5 tons. For all wheels including trailer.

chains
It is not necessary to have chains on board the vehicle.

"Garage on Delphi" holds a traditional drawing of winter tires! Each participant in our survey has a chance to win one of three sets of studded Michelin X-Ice North 2 or non-studded Michelin X-Ice 3 tires up to 18 inches in diameter and one of three sets of gorgeous Wolfrace alloy wheels from the GB or Asia-tec series to choose from.

Moreover, the winner will receive free installation and wheel balancing in any tire shop convenient for him.

To participate in the draw, you just need to answer the following question:

In your opinion, are there any reasons to ban the use of studded tires in Estonia?

Send your answers in the form of WIN EST or WIN NET SMS messages to the short number 13013. The cost of the message is €1.60. caliper [email protected] SMS provider: fortumo.com. The number of messages sent is not limited.

The drawing will last until 23:59 on October 28, the winner will be announced on October 30 at the Garage page.

Try your luck!

Automobile tourism is gaining popularity, but few people decide to celebrate the New Year and Christmas in Europe together with their four-wheeled friend. Snowfalls and possible ice along the way make you wonder if it is possible to get to Europe on studded tires and what are the general requirements for winter tires.

How to be, is it possible to get by with summer tires, having snow chains with you and, conversely, how do Europeans relate to studded tires?

Features of the European winter tour by car

When planning a car vacation in winter, do not forget that studded tires are under special control in Europe, so be sure to check how things are with it in specific countries of your car route.

Note! Sometimes novice travelers learn all the nuances and rules of the country where they dream of spending a vacation, but they completely forget about transit countries. Such an oversight can derail the entire vacation.

For example, let's take a holiday in the Zillertal ski resort. The famous Tyrolean Valley is located in Austria, and in this country winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 15, studded tires are allowed from October 1 to May 31.

Everything is going great: you have thought through all the Austrian sights you want to see, booked a hotel and even a restaurant on New Year's Eve, all suitcases and ski equipment in the trunk, even tires do not need to be changed, because in Austria spikes are in the law. You can go but...

It is best to go to winter Europe on good winter tires without studs

In most cases, we get to Europe by car, passing the Polish border. You hope that Poland will hospitably accept you, but not on studded tires, since the use of studded tires is prohibited in Poland.

It makes no sense to persuade the border guard to let you through, because you are moving much further into the Alps. Even if he misses, the very first Polish police will issue a fine and force him to change tires or remove the spikes. Everything is clear with spikes, but what about the presence of winter tires?

European legislation provides for seasonal tire changes, but it should be noted that compliance with the law is not too strictly monitored. Everything is so, but experienced auto travelers do not recommend taking risks and going to the European Union in winter on summer tires.

Why are studded tires banned in Europe?

Most European countries prohibit spikes by law due to the fact that they contribute to the destruction of the roadway. In some cases, summer tires are allowed, but with anti-skid chains.

List of countries where studded tires are prohibited by regulations:

Germany, Poland, the Netherlands;
Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia;
Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey;
Serbia, Macedonia, Croatia;
Portugal, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Map of Europe: countries where studded tires are under the strictest ban

European countries where studded tires are prohibited

Everything is quite simple: blue is allowed, red is prohibited.

The map clearly shows that it is possible to travel in the Baltic and Northern Europe in winter without any problems. There is no ban in Austria, Italy, France, Switzerland, but how to get there by private car? The question, alas, is rhetorical.

Winter tires in Europe - rules of use

Is there any universal advice on which tires to go to European countries in winter? In case you don't know the exact rules for a particular area, always choose good quality winter but non-studded "shoes" and have snow chains with you.

Important! According to European regulations, winter tires are marked with one of the signs M-S, M+S, M.S, M&S and must have a minimum tread depth of at least 4 mm.

Map of European countries where winter tires are mandatory

A map to help, where specific requirements for winter tires are marked in different colors:

green - required by law;
orange - mandatory only when weather conditions worsen;
gray-blue - the presence of winter tires is not prescribed by law.

Deteriorating road conditions include ice, snow, slush, temperatures of 0°C or below. This scheme applies to vehicles whose total weight does not exceed 3.5 tons. Chains - at the discretion of the driver, in mountainous areas - this is a mandatory requirement.

10/18/2011, "AVTOKEMPER"

Are you going on a winter trip by car in Europe? What winter tires to choose? Please note that the rules for using winter tires vary from country to country within the European Union.
Before heading to Europe in winter, check local regulations regarding the use of winter tires. After all, despite the fact that in many European countries winter tires are optional, entry to some tracks on summer tires or without snow chains may be prohibited. This article contains general information about the rules for the use of winter tires in Europe.

European standards
So far, the emergence of a common set of rules that would operate throughout Europe is not expected. However, in 1992, the EU adopted a common definition of M+S winter tires (Directive 92/23 EEC, II Amendment), which reads as follows: “tires whose tread depth and structure provide the best driving performance of a car on slush or covered fresh or melting snow sections of the track.

The profile of the M+S tires features larger longitudinal grooves and/or lugs that are more spaced than on conventional tires.” But if you believe this definition, many of today's winter tires are not - such as the ContiWinterContact TS 810 Sport rubber with an asymmetric tread pattern that provides reliable grip on the road. Nothing is said about the composition of the rubber compound, which plays an important role in winter conditions. But from the definition, you can understand what the snowflake sign means, which is applied to most winter tires. This badge can only be marked with tires that, on a snowy track, provide a 7% improvement in braking with ABS turned on compared to conventional tires with the M + S marking.

ALBANIA
Winter tires

spikes
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.
chains
The presence of the chain on board is mandatory from November 1 to April 30. Chains must be assembled on the drive axles of trucks and on all wheels of trailers and semi-trailers.

ANDORRA
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.
spikes
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.
chains
When there is an appropriate road sign, the use of chains is mandatory.

spikes
Studded tires are only allowed for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons, with a speed limit of 100 km/h on autobahns and 80 km/h on other roads.

chains
Chains must be used if indicated by the appropriate road sign. In this case, studded tires must also be equipped with snow chains.

spikes
Studded tires are allowed from 1 November to 31 March with a speed limit of 90 km/h on motorways and 60 km/h on other roads for vehicles with a GVW of 3.5 tonnes or less.

chains

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory between 15 November and 15 April. As an alternative, summer tires with chains can be used.

spikes

chains
Between November 1 and April 15, the driver must always have chains and a shovel in the car. And at least one set of chains must be put on the drive axle.

BULGARIA
Winter tires
Bulgaria

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
From November 1 to March 31, the driver must constantly carry chains in the car, at least on the drive axle. Chains must be used if indicated by a road sign.

GREAT BRITAIN
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are generally permitted. Condition: Studded tires must not damage the road surface.

chains
Chains may only be used on snow or ice-covered roads.

HUNGARY
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

Studs Studded tires are not permitted.

If the chains are used unnecessarily (on a dry road), the driver can be fined.

GREECE
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires may be used if weather conditions require it.

chains
Chains may be used if weather conditions require it.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

DENMARK
Winter tires
In Denmark, you can use winter tires, but this is not required. Spikes are allowed, although you probably won’t feel much benefit from them on the country’s tracks. At low temperatures, winter tires are recommended.

chains
Use is not allowed.

ITALY
Winter tires
Winter tires can be omitted, although for some tracks it is still recommended. In winter, we still do not recommend traveling around Italy without winter tires.

spikes
If you have studded tires, you should be aware of the speed limits - 90 km / h outside the city and 50 km / h in the city.

chains
There are no specific instructions for the use of snow chains.

ICELAND
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory between November 1st and April 14th. These dates may vary from year to year.

spikes
—
chains
—

IRELAND
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires can be used with speed limits up to 112 km/h on motorways and 96 km/h on other roads.

chains
Can be used in severe weather conditions.

SPAIN
Winter tires

spikes
Studded tires can only be used from 15 November to 31 March on snowy or icy roads.

chains
Only if there is an appropriate road sign.

LATVIA
Winter tires
Winter tires in Latvia are mandatory for all vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3.5 tons from 1 December to 1 March.

chains
Chains are optional but may be used in case of snow and ice.

LITHUANIA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory for all vehicles up to 3.5t from 10 November to 1 April. Minimum tire profile depending on vehicle category:
- M2-2 mm (from November 10 to April 1 - 3 mm);
— M3—2 mm; * No. 2 and No. 3—1 mm;
- O3 and O4 - 1 mm (trailers).

chains
Chains are optional but may be used in case of snow and ice.

spikes
Studded tires can be used with a speed limit from 1 December to 31 March. This applies to vehicles with a GVW of up to 3.5 tonnes as well as special vehicles and buses.

chains
Chains may only be used on snowy or icy roads.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

NETHERLANDS
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The use of chains on the road is prohibited.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains

PORTUGAL
Winter tires
Has no legislation regarding the use of winter tires.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
The presence of chains is not mandatory, except when indicated by a traffic sign. In this case, at least the driving axle must be equipped with chains.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Chains are not mandatory, but may be declared necessary under certain weather conditions.

SERBIA
Winter tires
Winter tires must have a profile of at least 4 mm.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
—

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Chains are optional.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

spikes
Studded tires are allowed with a speed limit of 100 km/h on motorways and 80 km/h on other roads from 1 November to 31 March. In this case, all four wheels must be equipped with spikes.

chains
It is not necessary to have on board the vehicle.

chains
Some trails (they are marked with special signs) may require snow chains. In some cases chains are obligatory (on some mountain passes).

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

CZECH
Winter tires
The use of winter tires may be mandatory if there is a relevant traffic sign on the side of the road (for example, on the D 1 autobahn) from 1 November to 1 April.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
Mandatory if there is an appropriate road sign. The drive axle must be equipped with a set of chains.
The maximum speed is 50 km / h.
It is mandatory to have chains on board vehicles with a gross weight of more than 7.5 tons.

MONTENEGRO
Winter tires
The minimum profile is 4 mm.

spikes
Studded tires are not allowed.

chains
—

SWEDEN
Winter tires
For foreigners, it is not necessary to use winter tires in the cold season. Outside the city, it is still recommended to drive on winter tires, since many roads here are not covered with sand.
For local residents in the period from December 1 to March 31, winter tires with a profile of at least 3 mm are required for vehicles with a gross weight of up to 3.5 tons.

spikes
Studded tires are allowed from 1 October to 30 April. If the vehicle is equipped with studded tires, the trailer must be equipped accordingly.

chains
As an alternative, chains are allowed in winter.

spikes
Spikes and chains are at the driver's discretion, but may be required on some tracks. On most autobahns, studded tires are prohibited, in addition, if they are present, there is a speed limit of 50 km / h in the city and 80 km / h outside it.

chains
The use of chains is mandatory when there is a road sign. Snowfall in the Alps can also happen in summer.

ESTONIA
Winter tires
The use of winter tires is mandatory from December 1 to the end of February, although, depending on weather conditions, the “season” may start earlier or end later than the deadline.

chains
It is not necessary to have chains on board the vehicle.

Traveling by car in the summer is certainly cool and there are many advantages - warm, stable good weather, long daylight hours, which makes the road easier and allows you to see more beautiful and interesting things. But just as nature has no bad weather, so there is no bad season for traveling.

Winter is a great time to travel to Europe for the Christmas holidays, when all cities are transformed and become more like an elaborately decorated Christmas tree. Or load your ski equipment into the car and go skiing in the Alps at one of the many ski resorts. And you can combine skiing and snowboarding with visiting festive cities. Traveling in your own car makes this easy.
There are a lot of options for relaxation and great pastime in Europe in winter.

But before he goes to Europe in the winter by car, he will prepare for this.

In the cold season, most motorists in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine change tires from summer to winter. What kind of rubber to put studded or studless (Velcro), everyone chooses according to their preferences. I have been riding studded tires for the fifth season already, I am very satisfied and ready to argue their advantages in relation to non-studded tires, which I drove for five seasons before the change and was also satisfied.)

The rules and timing of the seasonal change of tires in European countries are different.

When going to Europe, you need to find out what winter tire regulations are in the country where you decide to go, and in those countries through which you plan to travel to your destination.
Despite the fact that many European countries are members of the European Union, there are many differences in legislation and this applies to the rules governing the time for changing summer tires to winter tires, as well as the requirements for winter tires. In some European countries, winter tires are mandatory, and in some they are not, somewhere studded tires are allowed, but somewhere they are banned.

Imagine the situation, you are going on a trip by car to Austria. We planned to make a march to get to Vienna, explore this beautiful city in a few days, and then move further west to rest for a week. You carefully prepared, planned the route, made a list of attractions, booked hotels in advance and set off. From Moscow, the closest route to Austria lies through Poland. Upon arrival at the Polish border, you will find out that the road to Poland is closed on your car with studded tires, since studs are prohibited in Poland. All your arguments to the border guards that you don’t need to go to Poland, but to Austria, that not cheap hotels are booked there and the reservation for them will burn out and no one will return the money, etc. they care little. The situation is not pleasant.

I personally got into a similar situation. In March 2016, we decided to go for a walk to Poland by car, to visit Warsaw and Krakow in a week. About how we were not allowed to cross the border on studded tires. This happened quite unexpectedly and at first caused a state close to shock. You, neither sleep nor spirit, but here it is! “I have to upset the sir, but we won’t be able to keep you out of the country on the rings (in Polish, spikes!”). I had to urgently change the route. It turned out almost painlessly, instead of Poland, we went to Lithuania. True, we had to block the card so that the greedy Warsaw hotel would not write off the money (attempts to negotiate did not lead to success.) But it's good that we had the freedom to choose where to go and there was no hurry!

There may be such a situation that you decide to go to Lithuania in mid-November, winter is not in a hurry, there is no snow, you did not have time to change the tires on the wheels. And in Lithuania, as a rule, from November 10, winter tires are already mandatory. (I didn’t check it myself, but most likely they won’t let me in, the Baltic countries have very strict traffic rules and their administration by the authorities.) It’s also better not to drive on winter tires in the warm season.

Is it possible to Europe on studded tires?

So, in order not to get into unexpected situations, below is a list of European countries where winter tires are required and a list of countries where studded tires are prohibited.

European countries where winter tires are required:

Armenia
Belarus
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Iceland
Latvia

Luxembourg
Macedonia
Moldova
Romania
Serbia
Slovenia
Turkey
Finland
Croatia
Montenegro
Sweden
Czech
Estonia

European countries where studded tires are prohibited

Albania
Bulgaria
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Hungary
Germany
Greece
Ireland
Spain
Macedonia
Netherlands (Holland)

Portugal
Romania
Serbia
Slovakia
Slovenia
Croatia
Montenegro
Czech

As you can see, the list of countries where studded tires are banned is quite large.
For example, you won’t be able to get into Austria by car with studded tires without violating the rules of other countries through which you will be driving. Austria, where studded tires are legal, is literally surrounded by countries where studded tires are banned - Hungary, Germany, Slovenia, Slovakia. The shortest path lies through the aforementioned Poland, where thorns are extremely disliked.)

Thus, if you are going to Europe in winter and you have winter tires without studs, then there will be no problems.

How to get to Europe on studded tires

If you have studded tires, then you can get into the European Union through the European countries included in it, in which studded tires are allowed. Returning to the example of Austria, in order to get to it on studded tires, you need to enter the eurozone through Latvia, Lithuania or Estonia where studs are allowed, then through Poland with which Lithuania has a transparent border, then Germany (Hungary, Slovakia). This option is not perfect, in any of the countries where studded tires are prohibited, if they stop, they will issue a fine and may force you to de-stud the tires. But as the people say, those who do not take risks do not drink Aperol-spritz at Austrian ski resorts!) There is no desire to buy specially winter tires without studs in order to travel to Europe, it is expensive and vain. I assess the risks as not very high, from my experience in Europe, cars are rarely stopped for inspection. I hope this hypothesis can be tested soon! 😉

If you have any questions about traveling to Europe by car feel free to ask in the comments. I will answer with pleasure!

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As we passed the border with the Belarusian-Lithuanian border in Privalki.

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Austria and winter tires

Switzerland

Denmark

Norway

Finland

Great Britain

France

Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg

Sweden

Estonia

Lithuania

Latvia

Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Hungary

Romania

Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Croatia

Slovenia

Spain and Italy

Turkey

Russia

Beware the spikes!

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Map of Europe: countries where studded tires are under the strictest ban

Winter tires in Europe - rules of use

The rules and timing of the seasonal change of tires in European countries are different.

Is it possible to Europe on studded tires?

European countries where studded tires are prohibited

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