Do I need winter tyres (loi Montagne)?
Yes, in 34 mountain departments, from 1 November to 31 March. The loi Montagne requires, each winter from 1 November to 31 March, equipping your vehicle in 34 departments in the massifs (Alps, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrenees, Vosges). You need either 4 winter tyres with the 3PMSF marking (three-peak mountain + snowflake), or to carry chains or snow socks for at least two driving wheels. Tyres marked M+S only are no longer accepted. The affected areas are shown by signs at the entry and exit.
📋 The rules
- Obligation from 1 November to 31 March
- 34 departments in massifs (Alps, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrenees, Vosges)
- Either 4 3PMSF tyres or chains/socks for 2 driving wheels
- M+S-only tyres: no longer accepted (3PMSF required)
- Zones shown by signs at entry/exit
🔓 Exceptions
- Outside the period and the affected departments: no obligation
- Vehicles with studded tyres: allowed in certain periods
- The mayor/prefect can adjust the list of affected towns
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Driving without compliant equipment in an affected zone and period is an offence of €135. In severe weather (snow, ice), officers can immobilise the non-compliant vehicle until it's equipped. Beyond the fine, unsuitable tyres greatly increase the accident risk on snow or ice.
📎 Official sources
- Service-Public.fr · Mandatory winter equipment (loi Montagne) →
- Road safety · New winter equipment →
- Légifrance · Loi Montagne decree (winter equipment) →
❓ Frequently asked
Are winter tyres mandatory everywhere?
No. The obligation only covers 34 departments in the mountain massifs, from 1 November to 31 March. The affected towns are shown by signs. Elsewhere, winter equipment is advised but not mandatory.
Which equipment is accepted?
Either four winter tyres with the 3PMSF marking (three-peak mountain with snowflake), or carrying chains or snow socks for at least two driving wheels. Tyres marked only M+S are no longer accepted.
What dates for loi Montagne 2025-2026?
From 1 November 2025 to 31 March 2026. Outside this period the obligation doesn't apply, even in the affected departments.
What's the penalty for not complying?
A €135 fine. In snow or ice, officers can immobilise your vehicle until it's properly equipped.
How do I know if I'm in an affected zone?
The entries and exits of the obligation zones are shown by specific signs. The list of towns is set by each affected department's prefect; check before a mountain trip.
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