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Are you going on a winter trip by car in Europe? What winter tires to choose? Please note that the terms of use winter tires V different countries within the European Union are different. At the very end of the article you will also find the rules for participating in the winter Michelin tires and Wolfrace discs!

Before traveling to Europe in winter, you should check the local legislation regarding the use of winter tires. Indeed, 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 has collected general information on 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 vehicle on slush or sections of the track covered with fresh or melting snow.

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 car with the road. Nothing is said about the composition 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. It is allowed to mark with this icon only those tires that, on a snowy track, provide a 7% improvement in braking with the included ABS system compared to conventional M+S tires.

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 drive axles 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
If 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 Vehicle categories M2 and M3 ( Passenger Transportation more than eight passengers) is mandatory use winter tires, at least on the drive axle from November 1 to March 15. For vehicles of categories No. 2, No. 3 ( freight transport c gross weight over 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.
Minimum profile depth - 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.

TOP

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 greatly increases braking distances. Winter tires not required 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 pavement.

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 period the driver must carry chains in the car 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). Wherein 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 though great benefit on the highways of the country, you most likely will not feel them. 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 case of 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. Penalty for emergency, caused by the lack of winter tires, reaches 145 Euro. 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 gross weight of up to 3.5 t, 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.
When heavy snow 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 cars, but 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 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 Law on road traffic specifies 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. New law will enter 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 or radial tires, while the tread depth must be at least 4 mm.
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.
4x4 vehicles must be equipped with chains rear axle.
A shovel must be available on board every car.

FINLAND
Winter tires
From 1 December until the end of February, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles weighing no more than 3.5 tons.
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
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 settlements- 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.
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.

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.

SWITZERLAND
Winter tires
In Switzerland, winter tires can also be omitted. However, their use is recommended because drivers using summer tires, can be recognized as the perpetrators 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 can be mandatory requirement on a number of roads with the appropriate road sign.

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 tires Michelin X Ice North 2 or non-studded Michelin X-Ice 3 up to 18" diameter and one of three sets of great alloy wheels Wolfrace 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!

Car tourism is gaining popularity, but to meet New Year and Christmas in Europe, together with his four-wheeled friend, not many decide. 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...

IN winter Europe it is best to drive 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 law provides seasonal change tires, but it should be noted that compliance with the law is not monitored too strictly. 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, Türkiye;
• 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 colour- allowed, red - 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 on 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 exact rules for a specific area, always choose high-quality winter, but not studded "shoes" and have snow chains with you.

Important! According to European rules, winter tires are marked with one of the signs M-S, M + S, M.S, M&S and must have minimum depth tread patterns not less than 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.

Demanded in cold Russia, with its low atmospheric temperatures for a third of the calendar year, the installation of winter tires, the main element of which is a stud, is not very relevant for neighboring countries. Moreover, Europe in some cases completely prohibits their use. And if studded tires are already installed on the car, before traveling abroad, you should definitely make sure that the trip does not have to be interrupted by a visit to the tire shop closest to the border.

Where will they not let you with spikes?

Each EU country decides to stud or ride Velcro on its own. Where studded tires are banned in Europe, in the 2017 rules Russian traffic rules do not report. But necessary information can be found from other sources. There is enough detailed information on the Internet to understand whether it is possible to go on a trip to Europe on studded tires in winter. For example, it is better to refrain from visiting states of Eastern Europe, which include the Balkan countries and part of Western European countries that do not have mountain ranges with complex climatic conditions: from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Portugal.

Montenegro, Croatia and the Czech Republic complete the list. Clarifying in which European countries studded tires are banned, you can pay attention to the fact that the main direction for the introduction of restrictions is the Balkans and the countries of the former Eastern Bloc. Accordingly, if the route passes through one of these states, you will have to give up the opportunity to travel using anti-skid elements on tires in advance or pay large fines.

Which countries are not covered by the ban?

Since there are countries in Europe where studded tires are prohibited, it is worth clarifying the rules for entering those states that allow its use. For example, Austria, Ireland, Great Britain and other EU countries, located in areas of changeable continental climate, make it possible to enter on tires with spikes. In some states, this moment is negotiated exclusively on a seasonal basis or with a restriction maximum weight Vehicle. In most cases, the ban on studded tires in Europe is due to the desire to keep the road surface intact and avoid unnecessary costs. And for motorists choosing Cars as transport for travel, this aspect may not be enough pleasant surprise. If there are no plans urgent replacement studded tires, or the budget of the trip is limited, it is worthwhile to plan the route in advance in such a way as not to fall under the penalties of local authorities.

Are you going on a winter trip by motorhome or 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. In this article, we have collected 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	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.
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 N2, N3 (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/N1) from November 1 to April 15, winter tires must be on all axles or the drive axle must be worn 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.
spikes	Studded tires are not allowed.
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	Chains must be fitted to the tractor drive axle tires, if applicable. indicates a road sign (requirement only applies 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.
spikes	Studded tires are allowed from 1 October to 1 May.
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; N2 and N3 - 1 mm; O3 and O4 - 1 mm (trailers).
spikes	Studded tires are allowed from 1 November to 31 March.
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	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, if weather conditions do not 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.
chains	-
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 car.
FINLAND
Winter tires	From 1 December until the end of February, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles weighing no more than 3.5 tons. 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. 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.
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 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.
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.

Bon Voyage!