Winter tyres for driving to the French mountains
On this page
The winter period and vehicles
In the mountain zones that French prefects designate, light vehicles, vans and motorhomes must carry winter equipment from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027 (Service Public: winter tyres and chains, your obligations until 31 March 2027).
The zones are set department by department. The rule applies only inside a designated zone, so check the zones on your route before you set off.
What counts as equipment
Your vehicle must either carry removable anti-skid devices that can fit at least two driven wheels, or have four tyres suited to winter driving (Service Public).
Only tyres marked 3PMSF count as equivalent to removable devices. The 3PMSF mark shows a mountain with three peaks and a snowflake (Service Public). Other snow tyres are allowed, but you must also carry removable devices (Service Public).
The guidance says the requirement does not apply to vehicles fitted with studded tyres (Service Public).
The guidance does not mention M+S tyres. Do not rely on an M+S or all-season label. Ask your tyre supplier to check the marking on the sidewall.
Check the local zones
The prefect of each department sets the list of communes where equipment becomes compulsory, after consulting local elected officials (Service Public).
Road signs mark the entry and exit of each zone, and a panel shows the winter period. The guidance says that signposting is needed for the measure to be enforceable (Service Public).
Check the prefecture information for every department on your route, and note the date you checked it.
Fit the equipment to your car
Give your tyre supplier your exact tyre size, your vehicle and the equipment you plan to use. The guidance advises checking that removable devices fit your wheel size and the space between the wheel and the bodywork (Service Public).
Check your vehicle handbook for any restrictions. If you use removable devices, learn how to fit them before you leave, and keep the instructions with the equipment.
Plan for closures and delays
Check road opening and weather information before you enter a mountain section. Having the right equipment does not mean that a route is open or suitable for your vehicle and driving experience in the conditions.
Identify where you can wait or change plans before the harder section. Confirm that your accommodation is reachable and allow extra time for delays.
What this guide does not cover
The official guidance does not state a fine or penalty for missing equipment (Service Public). Check current French guidance before you travel rather than assuming how the rule is enforced.
Related guides
- Driving in Europe checklist: the documents and kit to check before a European road trip.
- France road trip from the UK: plan the wider route before you add mountain sections.
- Driving abroad checklist: pick your countries and vehicle for a checklist with official sources.
FAQs
Do winter equipment rules apply all winter in France?
The guidance sets the period as 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027, and the rule applies only inside designated mountain zones. Check the zones on your route for your travel dates.
Are M+S tyres enough?
The guidance says that only 3PMSF tyres count as equivalent to removable anti-skid devices. It does not mention M+S tyres, so check the sidewall marking with a tyre supplier.
What equipment can I carry?
You can carry removable anti-skid devices that fit at least two driven wheels, or fit four tyres suited to winter driving. The guidance does not describe any other option.
Is there a fine for not having winter equipment?
The guidance does not state a fine or penalty. Check current French guidance before you travel.
More in Driving abroad