Winter Tyres in Norway
Quick answer: Only in some conditions. In Norway winter tyres are required when needed for grip. There are no dates for winter tyres on cars, but the car must have adequate grip: winter tyres (with or without studs) or chains when conditions need them. From 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday (16 October to 30 April in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark) tyres must have at least 3 mm tread. Today: Applies when needed for grip, any date.
The rule
There are no dates for winter tyres on cars, but the car must have adequate grip: winter tyres (with or without studs) or chains when conditions need them. From 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday (16 October to 30 April in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark) tyres must have at least 3 mm tread.
What tyres count
At least 3 mm tread in the winter period. Studless winter tyres can be used all year.
Snow chains
Allowed when needed for grip.
Studded tyres
Allowed 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday; 16 October to 30 April in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark. Outside these dates only if conditions require. If used, all wheels must have studs.
Fine
Not confirmed. Check the official source below.
Lorries, buses and heavy vehicles
Vehicles over 3.5 t: winter tyres 15 November to 31 March, at least 5 mm tread, and enough snow chains on board; chains must be carried whenever snow or ice can be expected (Your Europe).
Tips for visiting drivers
Summer tyres do not grip on ice and snow, so a car on summer tyres can be stopped. Rental cars in winter come with winter tyres; check the tread on your own car before the ferry.
Notes: Some Norwegian cities charge a fee for driving on studded tyres; we did not check the 2026 amounts.
Official source and last check
Statens vegvesen (Norwegian Public Roads Administration): tyres and chains · Official text, cited · last checked
Also checked: Your Europe: road rules in Norway (heavy vehicles, stud dates)
Not confirmed on an official page: fine. We show "Not confirmed" rather than guess.
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 Norway: FAQ
Are winter tyres compulsory in Norway?
When do you need winter tyres in Norway?
What winter tyres are accepted in Norway?
Do you need snow chains in Norway?
What is the fine in Norway?
Are studded tyres allowed in Norway?
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