Austria Winter Equipment Mandate for Passenger Cars: November 1 – April 15 Rules

Austria enforces a strict situational winter equipment requirement (Situative Winterreifenpflicht) for all passenger cars between November 1 and April 15.

Winter Tire Requirements for Cars (M1)

When road conditions present snow, slush, or ice:

• All four wheels must be fitted with winter tires bearing M+S, M&S, or 3PMSF (Alpine symbol) markings.
• Minimum Tread Depth: Winter tires must have at least 4 mm tread depth (for radial tires) to legally qualify as winter tires in Austria. Tires under 4mm are legally classified as summer tires.

Snow Chains (Schneeketten)

Snow chains may be used as an alternative only if the road is continuously covered with snow or ice and does not damage the road surface. Mandatory snow chain signs (blue wheel with chains) require instant installation on drive wheels.

Penalties & Insurance Liability

Driving a passenger car on winter roads with summer tires carries a standard fine of €60. If other road users are endangered, fines escalate up to €5,000, and vehicle impoundment may occur. In accidents, insurance providers may refuse liability coverage due to gross negligence.

Automatic Seasonal Alerts with WrooWroo

Set up WrooWroo seasonal reminders to inspect your tread depth and switch tires before November 1 every year.