Winter Tyres in France
Quick answer: Only in some conditions. In France winter tyres are required in signed mountain zones, 1 Nov to 31 Mar. From 1 November to 31 March, in mountain communes listed by each prefect (34 departments, with signs at the start and end of each zone), cars, vans and motorhomes must either have four winter tyres or carry snow chains or snow socks for at least two drive wheels. This applies whatever the weather. Today: Season on: applies in signed mountain zones (1 Nov to 31 Mar).
The rule
From 1 November to 31 March, in mountain communes listed by each prefect (34 departments, with signs at the start and end of each zone), cars, vans and motorhomes must either have four winter tyres or carry snow chains or snow socks for at least two drive wheels. This applies whatever the weather.
What tyres count
Winter tyres means the 3PMSF Alpine symbol together with M+S, M.S or M&S. Tyres marked only M+S were tolerated until 1 November 2024 and no longer count. All-season tyres count only with 3PMSF.
Snow chains
Carrying metal chains or textile snow socks for two drive wheels meets the rule instead of winter tyres. Where a 'snow chains compulsory' sign is posted, chains must be fitted.
Studded tyres
Vehicles on studded tyres are exempt from the Loi Montagne equipment rule. Stud dates: not confirmed.
Fine
No fine in force yet. On 12 February 2026 the Interior Ministry said the rule has always been applied without sanctions and that a decree is needed to create one; it could not be published in 2025. We found no such decree as of 2 November 2026.
Lorries, buses and heavy vehicles
Lorries with a trailer or semi-trailer must carry chains for at least two drive wheels even with winter tyres.
Tips for visiting drivers
UK drivers heading to the Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Jura or Vosges: from 1 November carry chains or snow socks, or fit 3PMSF tyres, before you enter a signed mountain zone. There is no fine yet, but a 'chains compulsory' sign on the day still has to be obeyed.
Driving from the UK or Ireland? There is no winter tyre rule at home, so check your own tyres before you book the crossing: look on the sidewall for the 3PMSF mountain-snowflake symbol and pack chains or snow socks that fit your tyre size before you leave.
Notes: Legal basis: Loi Montagne II (2016) and decree 2020-1264. The exact communes are set by prefectoral order in each department; check the prefecture website of the department you drive to. Many websites still quote a EUR 135 fine; the Interior Ministry's February 2026 answer says no sanction has been created.
Official source and last check
French Senate: written question 06613 and Interior Ministry answer (12 February 2026) · Official text, cited · last checked
Also checked: Prefecture du Jura press release on the Loi Montagne II obligation (equipment, 3PMSF, trailers) · Your Europe: road rules in France (1 November to 31 March)
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change and local signs always apply; check the official source before you travel. "Right now" is worked out from today's date and the dates above; where the rule depends on snow, ice or signs, it applies only when those are present.
Check the road and the weather
Winter tyres in France: FAQ
Are winter tyres compulsory in France?
When do you need winter tyres in France?
What winter tyres are accepted in France?
Do you need snow chains in France?
What is the fine in France?
Are studded tyres allowed in France?
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