Where Studded Snow Tires Are Illegal in the United States

Studded snow tires are illegal for most drivers in Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Texas, and Wisconsin; they’re also banned in the District of Columbia. Rules elsewhere typically allow studs only during set winter months or under specific road conditions, so it’s important to check the exact regulations before you travel.

States that prohibit studded tires

The following list identifies U.S. states where conventional metal-studded snow tires are generally prohibited for regular passenger vehicles as of 2025. While these states treat studded tires as illegal, some may carve out narrow exemptions (for example, certain emergency vehicles or short-term allowances for visiting nonresidents).

• Alabama
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Illinois
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Texas
• Wisconsin

Although not a state, the District of Columbia also bans studded tires. If you operate a vehicle in or through these jurisdictions with metal studs, you could face enforcement actions or be required to remove the tires.

What the bans usually mean—and common exceptions

“Illegal” generally means you may not operate a vehicle on public roads with tires that have metal studs or other protuberances that contact the pavement. However, many statutes include narrow exceptions to prevent undue hardship or to accommodate safety-critical operations. Here are typical examples of how exceptions work, though the details vary by state:

• Emergency and public service vehicles: Some states allow limited use by emergency responders or public service fleets where safety demands it.
• Nonresident allowances: A few states that ban studs allow short-term use by vehicles visiting from states where studs are legal (often for a defined number of days).
• Special-purpose or permitted use: Certain statutes permit studs with specific permits, for defined routes, or for specialized vehicles (e.g., rural delivery) under strict conditions.
• Nonmetallic or lightweight traction devices: Some jurisdictions distinguish between traditional metal studs and newer, less-damaging traction devices; legality depends on the design and local definitions.

Because exceptions are narrow and fact-specific, it’s wise to consult your state’s Department of Transportation or the latest AAA Digest of Motor Laws before relying on any exemption.

How most other states handle studded tires

Outside the states listed above, studded tires are generally allowed—but often only seasonally (for example, November through March or April) or when snow/ice is present. Dates and rules vary widely. As reference points: Oregon and Washington customarily set winter windows (often Nov 1–Mar 31), New York typically allows Oct 16–Apr 30, and New Jersey often permits Nov 15–Apr 1. Some states, such as Colorado and New Hampshire, allow studs more broadly, though other requirements may apply.

Why some states ban studs outright

States that prohibit studs typically cite accelerated pavement wear, rutting, and roadway maintenance costs, plus increased noise. Modern winter tires without studs, combined with chains or alternative traction devices during severe storms, are often presented as safer for infrastructure while still providing traction options.

If you’re traveling between states

If your route crosses both “allowed” and “banned” jurisdictions, a little planning helps avoid fines, roadside headaches, or damage claims. Consider these steps before you go:

• Verify current rules: Check your state DOT and the destination state’s DOT or the AAA Digest of Motor Laws for the latest effective dates and definitions.
• Mind local exceptions: County- or corridor-specific allowances can differ from statewide norms; big cities may enforce bans more strictly.
• Swap or remove in advance: If you’ll enter a banned state, arrange to switch to non-studded winter tires or carry alternative traction devices permitted there.
• Confirm rental policies: If renting, ask the company about tire specs and restrictions for your itinerary.

Because enforcement and penalties can vary, confirming requirements ahead of time is the safest and most cost-effective approach.

Summary

As of 2025, studded snow tires are illegal in Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Texas, and Wisconsin; they’re also banned in Washington, D.C. Elsewhere, studs are commonly allowed only during specific winter months or under defined conditions. Check current state and local rules—and any narrow exceptions—before fitting or driving on studded tires across state lines.

What states don’t allow studded tires?

States that completely ban studded tires are Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, and Texas. However, some states, like Maryland, have exceptions for certain areas or vehicle types, so it’s crucial to check specific state laws for the most accurate, up-to-date information. 
States that don’t allow studded tires: 
Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, and Texas.
Important Considerations:

• Road Damage: Many states that ban or restrict studded tires do so because the metal studs cause significant damage to the roads. 
• Exceptions: Even in states where studded tires are generally banned, there may be exceptions for certain rural residents, postal workers, or vehicles with specific disability plates. 
• Regional Differences: Tire laws can vary significantly by state, and sometimes even by county or region within a state. 
• Seasonal Use: Many states that allow studded tires do so only during specific, colder months when ice is prevalent. 
• Always Check Local Laws: It is essential to verify the current laws for your specific state and locality before using studded tires. 

Are snow tires illegal in Texas?

Texas is one of only 11 states that prohibit the use of metal studs in snow tires, though the state does allow tires with rubber studs, according to Tirebuyer. According to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, studded tires are “permitted as long as the studs do not damage highway and are rubber.”

Does MN allow studded tires?

No, studded tires are illegal in Minnesota, due to the damage they cause to road surfaces. Minnesota law prohibits their use, and getting caught using them can result in a fine. While they were temporarily permitted from 1965 to 1971, a legislature in 1971 did not extend the permissive statute, making them banned for residents. 
Why they are banned:

• Road Damage: The primary reason for the ban is that the metal studs cause excessive wear and damage to Minnesota’s paved roads. 
• Cost: The damage caused by studded tires is costly to repair, affecting infrastructure budgets. 

Alternatives for winter driving in Minnesota:

• Snow tires without studs: Opens in new tabThese are a legal and effective option for providing enhanced traction on ice and snow. 
• Regular winter tires: Opens in new tabTires with aggressive tread patterns are designed to offer better grip in winter conditions and are a safe choice for Minnesota winters. 

What is the downside of studded tires?

Studded winter tires provide grip and safety on icy and hard-packed snow surfaces. Still, they also have downsides like road damage, noise, and reduced performance on dry pavement.