Can I drive on summer tyres in winter in Sweden?
No — in winter road conditions between 1 December and 31 March, cars must run winter tyres. This applies when there is snow, ice, slush or frost on the road; if the road is dry you may use summer tyres even within that period. Winter tyres must have at least 3 mm tread depth. Studded tyres are allowed 1 October–15 April and must be off by 16 April unless winter persists. In Stockholm a year-round studded-tyre ban applies on certain streets, including Hornsgatan and Fleminggatan. Driving without winter tyres in winter conditions brings a 2,000 kr fine.
📋 The rules
- Winter tyres required in winter conditions 1 Dec–31 Mar
- Winter tyres: at least 3 mm tread depth
- Studded tyres allowed 1 Oct–15 Apr
- Stockholm: year-round studded-tyre ban on certain streets
- Fine without winter tyres in winter conditions: 2,000 kr
🔓 Exceptions
- If the road is dry you may use summer tyres even within the period
- Stockholm exemption for e.g. a disabled parking permit
- Bicycles and class-II mopeds are not covered by the studded-tyre ban
⚠️ Penalties & fines
No winter tyres in winter conditions: 2,000 kr fine (raised 21 Feb 2025). Studs out of season: 500 kr. Studs on a banned Stockholm street: about 1,000 kr.
📎 Official sources
- Transport Agency · Winter tyres →
- City of Stockholm · Studded tyres →
- Traffic Ordinance (1998:1276) · Riksdagen →
❓ Frequently asked
Must I have winter tyres in winter?
Yes, in winter road conditions between 1 December and 31 March. If the road is dry you may use summer tyres.
How deep must the winter tyre tread be?
At least 3 mm during the winter period. Outside it the usual 1.6 mm limit applies.
When can I use studded tyres?
1 October–15 April. They must be off by 16 April unless winter still persists.
Where are studded tyres banned in Stockholm?
Year-round on streets including Hornsgatan and Fleminggatan. Crossing the street with studs is allowed.
What does driving without winter tyres cost?
2,000 kr in fines in winter conditions, after the fee was raised in February 2025.
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