The short answer
For a light car in Sweden, winter tyres are required from 1 December to 31 March when snow, ice, slush or frost is present on any part of the road. Studded tyres are permitted from 1 October to 15 April and outside that period when winter road conditions exist or are expected.
Weather matters as much as the date
The 1 December to 31 March requirement applies during winter road conditions, which police assess at the location.
Snow, ice, slush or frost on any part of the road qualifies.
Before driving, also understand the practical Systembolaget rules.
| In Swedish | What it means | When you use it |
|---|---|---|
| Är det vinterväglag? | Are there winter road conditions? | |
| Jag behöver byta till vinterdäck. | I need to change to winter tyres. |
Studded or friction tyres
Studded tyres are allowed from 1 October to 15 April, with an exception when winter continues or is expected.
Non-studded tyres for light cars need the mountain-and-snowflake symbol to qualify as winter tyres.
Back at home, learn the shared routine of the tvättstuga.
Tread and combinations
Transportstyrelsen states at least 3 mm tread for winter tyres on light vehicles.
If the car uses studs, its trailer must also use studs in winter road conditions.
The Transport unit practises directions, times and incidents.
Prepare before the cold
Book the change before the first cold spell, particularly in larger cities.
Check pressure, wear and markings on all four tyres, then store the other set cool, dry and dark.
Adjust speed and following distance because compliant tyres do not remove ice or braking distance.
Sources
- Transportstyrelsen: Vinterdäck2024-12-11
Rules and processing times change. Check the official page for your own case before acting on anything here.
Questions people ask
- When are winter tyres mandatory?
- From 1 December to 31 March when winter road conditions exist.
- When are studded tyres allowed?
- From 1 October to 15 April, and outside that period when winter conditions exist or are expected.
- What tread depth is required for a light car?
- At least 3 mm for winter tyres, according to Transportstyrelsen.
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