Winter tyres and snow chains: what you need to know
Every winter, regulations require specific equipment for driving in mountainous areas. Winter tyres, snow chains or snow socks: discover the legal requirements and practical advice for driving safely on snowy roads.
Sécurité Routière
Do you always need to carry snow chains?
✅ Yes, you must have snow chains. Two rules apply during the winter period.
- From 1st November to 31st March, you must equip your vehicle with winter tyres, or carry snow chains or snow socks, to drive anywhere in the Savoie department.
- At any time, authorities may require the use of snow chains or snow socks, particularly during heavy snowfall or for access to ski resorts.
👉 Conclusion: even with winter tyres, access to certain roads will be denied if snow chains or snow socks become compulsory and you do not have them.
Snow chains or snow socks?
✅ Snow chains, without hesitation.
👉 They are sturdier, more effective and provide better grip. Snow socks are insufficiently effective and are not suitable for snowy mountain roads (high risk of getting stuck and blocking traffic).
Good habits to adopt in winter
- Fit winter tyres to your vehicle: allows you to drive in most situations without having to fit snow chains
- Carry snow chains on board: essential if conditions deteriorate or if they become compulsory
- Know how to fit snow chains: practising before you leave avoids unpleasant surprises on the roadside
- Plan your journeys: always bring water, warm clothing and food in case of delays or roadblocks
Hire vehicles
Hire vehicles are not always equipped with winter tyres or snow chains: check before departure.
Winter tyres: what you need to know
Only 3PMSF tyres are accepted as equivalent to removable anti-skid devices (snow chains and snow socks). Other types of winter tyres may still be purchased and used, but in this case drivers must also carry removable anti-skid devices.
