Tyres and snow chains

Original source for this information: Norwegian Public Roads Administration

Studded tyres and chains

Studded tyres may only be used between 1 November and the first Monday after Easter Monday. In the counties of Nordland, Troms and Finnmark, studded tyres may be used from 16 October up to and including 30 April.

If the weather and road surface conditions make it necessary, studded tyres and chains may be used beyond these dates. If you are using studded tyres, the vehicle must have studded tyres on all wheels.

Non-studded winter tyres

There are no date restrictions when it comes to non-studded winter tyres. However, you should know that non-studded tyres on summer roads may have poorer performance than summer tyres on wet asphalt.

Tread depth

Tyres must have a tread depth of at least 3 mm between 1 November and Sunday after Easter Monday. In Nordland, Troms and Finnmark, the requirement for a tread depth of at least 3 mm applies from 16 October up to and including 30 April. Outside of the winter period, tread depth must be at least 1.6 mm.

Summer tyres must not be used on winter roads with snow or ice, because summer tyres do not have sufficient road grip in such conditions.

Tyres on heavy vehicles

There are separate rules for tread depth and winter tyres for vehicles over 3,500 kg.

Trailers

If you drive with a trailer, the same rules for tyre tread depth apply to the trailer as to the motor vehicle.

Fit your tyres correctly

Many tyres have an arrow that shows the rotation direction, and may also have sidewall markings “inside”/”outside”. Make sure that such tyres are mounted correctly to achieve optimal road grip.