Winter tyre rules in Austria
Winter tyre rules in Austria
Austria does not have a general winter tyre requirement for passenger cars but a situational one – whereas heavy trucks and buses are subject to an unconditional requirement. Here is an overview of the rules.
Passenger cars and vehicles up to 3.5 t
Period: 1 November to 15 April
During this period, in wintry road conditions – snow, slush or ice – you may only drive with winter tyres on all four wheels.
- Minimum tread depth: 4 mm for radial tyres, 5 mm for bias-ply tyres
- Marking: M+S (also M.S. or M&S) together with the snowflake symbol (3PMSF), or tyres bearing only the snowflake symbol
- All-season tyres with this marking and sufficient tread count as winter tyres
Snow chains as an alternative: On a road completely or almost completely covered with snow or ice, you may use snow chains on at least two drive wheels instead of winter tyres.
Trucks over 3.5 t
Period: 1 November to 15 April – regardless of the weather
- Winter tyres with the snowflake symbol on at least one drive axle
- Minimum tread depth: 5 mm for radial tyres, 6 mm for bias-ply tyres
Buses (classes M2 and M3)
Period: 1 November to 15 March – also regardless of the weather, with the same requirements as for heavy trucks. In addition, suitable snow chains for at least two drive wheels must be carried.
What does this mean for your choice of tyres?
The legal 4 mm is a minimum, not a recommendation. Below about 4 mm a winter tyre loses a lot of traction on snow – so do not wait until the limit is reached before changing.
For trucks and trailers, it is worth looking at the axle position: steer, drive and trailer axles have different tread requirements. We are happy to advise you on the right tyre mix for your application.
Questions? +43 670 306 1217 · info@sinaopt.com
This summary is for guidance only. The version of the Austrian Road Traffic Regulations in force at the time is authoritative.