Winter tyres and snow chains requirements in Austria and Switzerland
5 November, 2021 | Update: 30/09/2025
Are you heading to the mountains by car, motorhome, or caravan this winter? Then it’s important to know the rules for winter tyres and snow chains. Regulations differ between Austria and Switzerland. With this guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect – and avoid hefty fines or dangerous situations on the road.
Table of Contents
- At a glance
- Rules in Austria
- Rules in Switzerland
- Winter tyres in Germany
- Winter tyres in France and Italy
- Handy tip
- Further reading
At a glance
- Austria: Winter tyres required from 1 November to 15 April in wintry conditions. For vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, tyres are mandatory throughout this period.
- Switzerland: Winter tyres are not legally required but strongly recommended. Without suitable tyres you risk fines and liability in case of accidents.
- All-season tyres: Permitted in both countries if marked M+S and with sufficient tread depth.
- Tread depth: Minimum of 4 mm for winter tyres in both countries.
- Snow chains: Mandatory where indicated by road signs. Only allowed on completely snow-covered or icy roads.
Be prepared for snow and ice when driving high up in the Austrian mountains.
Rules in Austria
Winter tyre requirement
- 1 November – 15 April in wintry conditions.
- Cars and motorhomes up to 3.5 tonnes: all four wheels must have winter tyres.
- Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes: winter tyres are always required during this period.
👉Caravans and trailers: not required, but highly recommended.
What counts as a winter tyre?
- Tyres marked with M+S or the Alpine snowflake symbol.
- Tread depth: at least 4 mm (radial tyres) or 5 mm (diagonal tyres).
All-season tyres
Permitted if marked M+S. In mountainous regions, proper winter tyres are strongly advised.
Snow chains
- Only permitted on fully snow-covered or icy roads.
- Mandatory where indicated by a blue snow chain sign.
- Motorhomes >3.5 tonnes: snow chains must be carried.
- Maximum speed: 50 km/h.
- Use only chains that meet Austrian ÖNORM V5117/V5119 or EU standards.
- Even 4×4 vehicles may need chains unless a sign explicitly exempts them.
👉Snow socks are not considered a valid substitute for snow chains.
Fines
- Up to €5,000 for accidents without proper tyres or chains.
- Insurance companies may refuse coverage if your vehicle is not equipped correctly.
👉Check with your insurer before travelling to see if they impose conditions on tyre types.
This sign means snow chains are mandatory if the road is covered with snow or ice.
Rules in Switzerland
Winter tyre requirement
- Not legally required, but strongly recommended.
- The driver is always responsible for adequate grip.
- Without suitable tyres, you may be fined or held liable in the event of an accident.
👉Check with your insurer before departure regarding tyre requirements.
All-season tyres
Permitted, but less reliable in heavy snow and ice. Winter tyres are strongly advised, especially in the Alps.
Tread depth
- Legal minimum: 1.6 mm.
- Recommended for winter tyres: 4 mm.
Snow chains
- Mandatory where indicated by a blue sign.
- Can also apply in summer in higher Alpine regions.
- Recommendation: always carry snow chains in Switzerland.
Winter tyres must bear the M+S marking and the Alpine snowflake symbol.
Winter tyres in Germany
If you’re travelling to Austria or Switzerland, you’ll likely drive through Germany. Germany has a situational winter tyre requirement: whenever there is snow, ice, or slippery conditions, winter tyres are mandatory. Since October 2024, old M+S-marked tyres are no longer accepted – only tyres with the Alpine symbol are permitted. Without winter tyres, you risk fines and liability in case of an accident. Read more in our blog: Winter tyres in Germany: when are they required?.
Winter tyres in France and Italy
Both France and Italy have their own specific regulations for winter tyres and snow chains. In many regions, especially the Alps and the Dolomites, winter tyres or chains are mandatory in winter. In France, stricter regional rules have been introduced in recent years. Find all details in our blog: Winter tyres in Italy and France.
Handy tip
Travelling with a motorhome or caravan? Many campsites in Austria and Switzerland stay open in winter specifically for skiers. You’ll be close to the slopes and benefit from facilities like heated sanitary blocks and drying rooms for skis, snowboards, and boots.
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