Winter tyres and snow chains in Norway (2026)

Last reviewed: 31 October 2026

In short: Norway requires at least 3 mm tread in winter, from 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday (16 October to 30 April in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark). Studded tyres are allowed in the same period, and chains may be used when conditions require.

RuleWhat applies
Winter tyres or equivalent equipment requiredDriving in winter conditionsIn winter the tyres must have a tread depth of at least 3 millimetres. Outside the winter periods the vehicle must still have winter tyres (studded or non-studded), chains or similar if that is needed for sufficient road grip. Summer tyres may not be used on winter roads. [1]
Period or conditions when it appliesDriving in winter conditionsThe winter tread-depth requirement of 3 millimetres applies from 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday, inclusive. In Nordland, Troms and Finnmark it applies from 16 October to 30 April, inclusive. [1]
Studded tyresDriving in winter conditionsStudded tyres may only be used from 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday, inclusive (16 October to 30 April in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark). If weather and road conditions make it necessary, they may be used beyond these dates. Studded tyres must be fitted on all wheels. Non-studded winter tyres may be used all year. [1]
Snow chainsDriving in winter conditionsChains may be used beyond the studded-tyre dates if the weather and road conditions make it necessary. A vehicle must have winter tyres, chains or similar outside the winter periods if this is needed for sufficient road grip. [1]
Penalty for not having the right tyresDriving in winter conditions⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • A different period applies in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark: 16 October to 30 April, inclusive.
  • The Statens vegvesen page does not state a fine for tyre requirements.

Sources

  1. Statens vegvesen (Norwegian Public Roads Administration): Tyre requirements | Statens vegvesen (consulted 31 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.