Winter tyres and snow chains in Finland (2026)
Last reviewed: 31 October 2026
In short: Finland requires winter tyres on cars with at least 3.0 mm tread in November to March when weather or road conditions require it. Studded tyres are allowed from November to March and at other times if conditions require, and snow chains are allowed.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Winter tyres or equivalent equipment requiredDriving in winter conditions | If the weather or road conditions require it, passenger cars, vans and special vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes (and trailers over 0.75 and up to 3.5 tonnes, and motorcycles and mopeds) must use winter tyres with a main-groove tread depth of at least 3.0 mm in November to March. Exceptions include short transfers of up to 20 km and vehicles for which winter tyres are not available. [1] |
| Period or conditions when it appliesDriving in winter conditions | The duty applies in November, December, January, February and March, when the weather or road conditions require it. The law sets no exact start or end date within those months. [1] |
| Studded tyresDriving in winter conditions | Studded tyres may be used on cars from the start of November to the end of March. They may also be used at other times if the weather or road conditions require it, and by some vehicle groups such as emergency and road-maintenance vehicles. On cars and vans, studded tyres must be fitted to all wheels (twin wheels excepted). [1] |
| Snow chainsDriving in winter conditions | Tyres may be fitted with studs, snow chains or similar anti-skid devices, provided they do not substantially damage the road surface. [1] |
| Penalty for not having the right tyresDriving in winter conditions | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- The penalty for breaking the winter-tyre duty was not found in the Traffic Act text read.
Sources
- Finlex (Ministry of Justice): Tieliikennelaki 729/2018 (consolidated, Finlex open data) (consulted 31 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.