Can I drive without winter tyres in winter?
It depends on the road and the period. There's no single national obligation: the winter-equipment obligation (winter tyres marked M+S, or snow chains or equivalent devices on board) is set by the bodies that manage the roads (regions, provinces, municipalities, motorway companies) with specific orders, shown by signs. The typical period runs from 15 November to 15 April, but dates can vary locally. On many mountain roads and snow/ice-prone stretches the obligation applies all season; elsewhere it kicks in only in winter conditions. If you fit winter tyres, check the speed index is adequate. Outside the allowed periods, winter tyres with a lower index than the logbook's can't be used.
📋 The rules
- Obligation set by the road-managing bodies (orders, signs)
- Winter tyres (M+S) or chains/devices on board
- Typical period: 15 November - 15 April (variable local dates)
- On mountain stretches often in force all season
- Tyre speed index to be respected
🔓 Exceptions
- Roads with no obligation order: chains/winter tyres not mandatory (but advised)
- Suitable M+S all-season tyres: generally allowed
- Chains on board: an alternative to winter tyres where allowed
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Driving without winter equipment where and when it's mandatory is a Highway Code breach, fined and, in dangerous cases, with a possible vehicle hold until you comply. Using tyres with a lower speed index than required, outside the allowed winter period, is also sanctioned. Beyond the penalty, suitable tyres are essential for safety on snow and ice. Before winter, check the orders for the roads you use, the condition and suitability of the tyres, and keep chains on board where required.
📎 Official sources
- Normattiva · Highway Code (use of chains and tyres) →
- MIT · Winter driving and equipment →
- State Police · Winter road safety →
❓ Frequently asked
Are winter tyres mandatory across Italy?
No, there's no single national obligation. The obligation to have winter tyres or chains on board is set by the bodies managing the roads, with orders shown by signs. The typical period runs 15 November to 15 April, but dates and stretches vary locally.
Can I use chains instead of winter tyres?
Generally yes, where the order allows it: having approved snow chains or equivalent devices on board is an alternative to winter tyres. On some stretches, though, winter tyres may be specifically required: check the signs.
Are all-season tyres OK?
Generally yes, if they have the suitable M+S marking and an adequate speed index. All-season tyres with the right marking are considered valid to meet the winter-equipment obligation where it applies. Check the marking on the tyre's sidewall.
What do I risk driving without where it's mandatory?
A fine and, in dangerous cases, a possible vehicle hold until you comply. Using tyres with a speed index below the logbook's outside the allowed winter period is also sanctioned. Suitable tyres are anyway essential for safety.
When can I remove the winter tyres?
Usually at the end of the winter period set by the orders (often 15 April), with a changeover tolerance window. After that, if your winter tyres have a speed index below the logbook's, you can't use them and must fit suitable summer ones.
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