Studded tires are legal in Idaho from Oct. 1 to April 30
Snowstorms may not be part of the immediate weather forecast in the lower elevations and valleys of Idaho, but they’ve already made an appearance in the higher elevations and mountain passes. Accordingly, Oct. 1 marks the date for legal use of studded tires in Idaho. Idaho’s studded snow tire season continues through April 30.
While it may be legal to use the tires, officials advise against it unless conditions warrant. Studded tires are snow tires with small metal cleats embedded in the tread, and may cause undue wear on bare roadways.
Studded tire laws vary in neighboring states:
- Montana: Oct. 1 – May 31
- Nevada: Oct. 1 – April 30
- Utah: Oct. 15 – April 15
- Oregon: Nov. 1 – March 31
- Washington: Nov. 1 – March 31
- Wyoming: Legal all year
For weekly updates on highway construction projects in Idaho, call the Idaho Road Report at 511 or 1-888-IDA-ROAD (432-7623). For online updates, visit the transportation department’s road report at 511.idaho.gov.
Daily reports on winter road conditions are provided from November through April.
The transportation department is helping drivers stay safe with the annual Winter Safety Campaign. Check the department’s Facebook and Twitter pages. You also can visit our Road Maintenance page and click on the “Winter Driving” tab for helpful videos and other information.