Winter tyresAustria
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Austria. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
179. Winter tyres
Winter tyres are tyres designed to provide improved traction and braking performance in cold weather, snow and other winter conditions. Their tread pattern and rubber compound are designed to remain effective at lower temperatures and provide better grip than ordinary summer tyres in appropriate winter conditions.
Winter tyres can be identified by markings on the sidewall. The 3PMSF symbol, showing a snowflake inside a three-peaked mountain, indicates that the tyre has met specified performance requirements for severe snow conditions.
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Are Austria’s winter-tyre requirements seasonal or condition-based?
For covered cars and light goods vehicles, winter equipment is required between 1 November and 15 April when wintry road conditions are present. Qualifying chains may be an alternative on continuously snow- or ice-covered roads.

Traffic rules
Austria