Tire Chain Laws by StateUpdated a year ago

Tire Chain Laws by State

Here is a summary of tire chain laws for various states:

• Alabama: Allowed when required due to snow or other poor weather conditions.
• Alaska: Permitted from September 15 through May 1 north of 60° latitude and from September 30 through April 15 south of 60° latitude.
• Arizona: Allowed when required due to snow, rain, or poor weather conditions.
• California: Required when signs are posted. Different levels (R1, R2, R3) dictate the necessity based on vehicle type and conditions.
• Colorado: Required for commercial vehicles from September 1 through May 31. Two levels of chain laws apply depending on conditions.
• Connecticut: Permitted from November 15 through April 30.
• Idaho: Studded tires allowed from October 1 to April 30. Chains are required on some mountain passes.
• Kentucky: Only allowed on ice-covered roads or if the vehicle has an ice shoe.
• Massachusetts: Permitted from November 1 through May 1.
• Montana: Required when chain-up signs are posted. Vehicles must carry chains from October 1 through April 1.
• Nevada: Required on vehicles over 10,000 lbs during snow conditions. Studded tires allowed from October 1 through April 30.
• Ohio: Allowed when required for safety during snow or ice conditions.
• Oregon: Chains must be carried and used as indicated by signs. Six chains are typically required for compliance.
• Utah: Required from October 1 through April 30 when conditions warrant. Commercial vehicles must have chains on at least four drive-wheel tires.
• Vermont: Required when posted. Specific requirements for vehicles with trailers.
• Washington: Vehicles over 10,000 lbs must carry chains from November 1 to April 1 on specified routes.

For more detailed information, including specific local regulations and exceptions, you can refer to each state's Department of Transportation (DOT) website