Winter Tyres in Italy
Quick answer: Only in some conditions. In Italy winter tyres are required on signed roads, 15 Nov to 15 Apr. From 15 November to 15 April, on roads where signs require it, cars must have winter tyres fitted or carry snow chains on board. Each road owner (ANAS, motorway operators, regions, provinces, towns) decides which roads. Today: Season starts 15 Nov.
The rule
From 15 November to 15 April, on roads where signs require it, cars must have winter tyres fitted or carry snow chains on board. Each road owner (ANAS, motorway operators, regions, provinces, towns) decides which roads.
What tyres count
Winter tyres are marked M+S; 3PMSF tyres and all-season tyres with both markings count.
Snow chains
Summer tyres are allowed only if you carry approved chains ready to fit. Snow socks certified to UNI 11313 or ON V5121 count as chains. Maximum 50 km/h with chains or socks.
Studded tyres
Generally allowed under local rules, on all wheels including any trailer (OeAMTC).
Fine
EUR 87 to EUR 344 (ACI, 15 November 2025). In snow or ice, police can stop the car from going on until it is equipped.
Tips for visiting drivers
On the A22 Brenner motorway down to Affi and around Bolzano, winter equipment is required from 15 November to 15 April even with no snow, and the Aosta Valley starts on 15 October (OeAMTC). If you rent a car, ask for winter tyres or chains before you drive up to the mountains.
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: Codice della Strada article 6 and the 2013 ministry directive. Dates can be extended by local order in bad weather. OeAMTC quotes a range of EUR 42 to EUR 345 (lower amounts apply inside towns).
Official source and last check
ACI (Automobile Club d'Italia), L'Automobile, 15 November 2025 · Cited, not copied · last checked
Also checked: OeAMTC: winter rules in neighbouring countries (A22, Bolzano, Aosta Valley) · Your Europe: road rules in Italy
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 Italy: FAQ
Are winter tyres compulsory in Italy?
When do you need winter tyres in Italy?
What winter tyres are accepted in Italy?
Do you need snow chains in Italy?
What is the fine in Italy?
Are studded tyres allowed in Italy?
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