With the gradual drop in temperatures and the imminent arrival of winter, the obligation to travel on roads equipped with winter tires or snow chains is triggered throughout Italy. These devices serve to optimize road safety conditions as they ensure maximum grip in relation to weather conditions. The A24 and A25 highways pass through mountainous areas, reaching altitudes above 1,000 meters. Getting on the road with the proper equipment is essential for safe driving in the inland areas of Abruzzo and Lazio, where temperature drops and weather changes can be sudden.
As is the case every year, the requirement takes effect from November 15, 2026, through April 15, 2027, including on the A24 and A25 highways.
In detail, the ordinance will affect the following routes:
- A24 Highway between the Tivoli and Teramo Est interchanges/SS80 junction;
- A25 Highway along its entire length, between the Torano directional interchange and the interchange connecting to the A14 Highway.
Winter Equipment: Everything You Need to Know
- The requirement to install winter tires or carry snow chains applies to all motor vehicles, with the exception of two-wheeled mopeds and motorcycles, which may only be driven when there is no snow or ice on the road and no snowfall is occurring;
- anti-skid devices to be carried on board as an alternative to winter tires must be compatible with the tires of the vehicle on which they are to be installed, and, when used, the installation instructions provided by the vehicle and device manufacturers must be followed;
- Winter tires must be marked M+S. Approval, which is the Authority’s official recognition of compliance with a technical specification or regulation, is indicated by the E mark followed by a number identifying the country that issued the approval and a serial number.
- Driving without winter tires during the period specified by law is punishable by a fine that varies depending on the type of road being traveled: fines start at 42 euros in built-up areas, rise to 87 euros on roads outside built-up areas, and can reach up to 344 euros. In addition, three points will be deducted from the driver’s license, and, if necessary, the vehicle may be impounded by a tow truck. On the highway, the fine It ranges from a minimum of 87 euros if paid within five days to a maximum of 344 euros. In snowy conditions, drivers without “winter equipment” are required to stop. Failure to comply with this regulation results not only in a fine but also in the deduction of three points from the driver’s license. In cases of serious violations, the vehicle registration may even be suspended until the tires are changed, with a fine of up to 1,731 euros.
- There is no rule requiring you to replace winter tires with summer tires once the winter season has ended, provided, however, that the winter tires themselves have a a speed rating equal to or higher than that indicated on the vehicle registration certificate. In fact, the law allows for the use of winter tires with a speed rating lower than that indicated in the vehicle registration document, provided that, once the mandatory period has ended, they are replaced with tires of the correct speed rating (i.e., equal to or higher) within one month. For example, if the requirement ends on April 15, winter tires with a lower speed rating must be replaced by May 15.
- In addition to snow chains, “snow socks” may also be used in Italy starting in 2023, provided they are certified in accordance with European regulations. Like chains, snow socks can serve as a temporary solution for dealing with a sudden snowfall and for driving on snow-covered roads. However, it’s important to remember that they do not guarantee the same handling, traction, and durability as winter tires, which can be used at any time, even on dry pavement.
Winter, snow, or all-season tires?
Winter
tires
must bear the M+S (Mud & Snow) marking and, preferably, the 3PMSF symbol (a snowflake inside a mountain), which certifies high performance on snow. All-season tires with the M+S marking are also permitted. Alternatively, summer tires may be used only if you have snow chains or snow socks on board that are certified to UNI EN 16662-1:2020.
Here is a practical guide to choosing the most appropriate type:
Practical Tips
- Check local ordinances: each municipality may have different rules.
- Fit winter tires to all four wheels: even though the law only requires them on the drive axle, it’s recommended to fit winter tires to all four wheels for greater stability.
- Consult a tire specialist: to choose the model best suited to your driving style and the weather conditions in your area.
- Before setting out on a trip, it’s recommended that you check the weather forecast and road conditions; the “strada dei parchi” SpA website provides all the information you need for a safe journey.
