Drivers have two weeks to remove studded tires before April 1 deadline
 Oregon state law allows motorists to use studded tires from Nov. 1 through March 31. Because studded tires damage Oregon highways, ODOT encourages drivers to consider using chains or non-studded traction tires like those pictured.
March 17, 2026
For more information, contact Julie Denney, 503-949-2366.
SALEM – Oregon drivers have two weeks to remove studded tires to meet the April 1 deadline. ODOT encourages vehicle owners to not wait until the last minute to make the swap.
State law allows studded tires to be used in Oregon from Nov. 1 through March 31. Beginning April 1, law enforcement officers can issue citations with a $165 fine to drivers with studded tires on their vehicles.
Drivers should use other types of traction tires or chains if extra traction is required after March 31 or postpone travel until conditions improve.
“Spring storms are always possible in Oregon,” said Elizabeth Papadopoulos, ODOT state maintenance and operations engineer. “Our maintenance crews are monitoring the weather and will work to remove any late-season snow or ice from highways as soon as possible.”
When planning for next winter, drivers can help prevent damage to Oregon’s roads by considering alternatives to studded tires. Research shows all-weather tires without studs do not cause any more damage than standard tires while providing better traction than studded tires on bare pavement.
For more information on Oregon’s law regarding traction tires and chains, visit our website: Oregon Chain Law.
Whenever you travel, plan for the weather and visit TripCheck.com for road condition information.
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