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Winter Tires Austria 2026
Winter tyres in Austria: the situational duty under § 102(8a) KFG, the Alpine symbol (3PMSF) and minimum tread depth, plus a buying guide.
View winter tires at reifen.atReviewed by: CheckEverything.at RedaktionLast updated:
Direct answer
In Austria the situational winter tyre duty applies to cars (classes M1 and N1) from 1 November to 15 April (§ 102(8a) KFG). In wintry road conditions (a snow-covered road, slush or ice) you may only drive with winter tyres fitted on all wheels. If the road is covered by a continuous layer of snow or ice, snow chains on at least two drive wheels are an accepted alternative. The minimum tread depth is 4 mm for radial tyres and 5 mm for cross-ply tyres.
Key facts
- Situational winter tyre duty for cars (M1/N1) from 1 November to 15 April (§ 102(8a) KFG).
- Winter tyres must be fitted on all four wheels, or snow chains on at least two drive wheels when snow or ice covers the road.
- Since 1 October 2024: only the 3PMSF symbol is accepted; the M+S marking alone is no longer sufficient.
- Minimum tread depth for winter tyres: 4 mm (radial) or 5 mm (cross-ply) under the KDV.
- Always take the tyre size from the Austrian vehicle registration (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I, point 15.1/15.2).
- Fine of up to 10,000 Euros under § 134(1) KFG; in practice a far lower on-the-spot fine is usual.
⚠️ Winter Tire Regulations in Austria
For cars and light commercial vehicles (classes M1 and N1) the situational winter tyre duty applies from 1 November to 15 April. In wintry road conditions (snow-covered road, slush, ice) winter tyres or all-season tyres bearing the Alpine symbol (3PMSF) must be fitted on all wheels; if the road is covered by a continuous layer of snow or ice, snow chains on at least two drive wheels are permitted instead. Since October 2024 the Alpine symbol (3PMSF) is mandatory – the M+S marking alone is no longer sufficient. Minimum tread depth: 4 mm for radial tyres, 5 mm for cross-ply tyres. Breaching the KFG is an administrative offence and can be fined up to 10,000 Euros under § 134(1) KFG; in practice a far lower on-the-spot fine is usually issued. This information may change - check current regulations.
When to switch and which penalties apply: detailed winter tyre guide
Top Winter Tire Brands
Continental WinterContact
Test winner in numerous tests, excellent in snow
Michelin Alpin
Long-lasting with balanced winter properties
Pirelli Winter Sottozero
Sporty and safe in all winter conditions
Bridgestone Blizzak
Excellent on ice and snow
Popular Winter Tire Sizes
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission on purchases made through these links. Prices may change. Promotions and availability follow the current terms at reifen.at.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
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Alpine Symbol (3PMSF)
The mountain pictogram with snowflake shows that the tire has passed winter tests. Mandatory for new winter tires in the EU since 2018.
📊
EU Tire Label
Check fuel efficiency, wet grip and rolling noise. The values are not a guarantee but provide useful orientation.
🔍
Check Manufacturing Date
The DOT number shows production week and year. Tires should ideally not be older than 2-3 years, although they can be used longer.
💰
Price-Performance
Premium brands may offer better properties; mid-range tires also meet legal requirements. Reading independent test results is worthwhile.
Tire Storage and Care
Cleaning
Before storage, tires should be cleaned and inspected for damage.
Storage Location
Store dry, cool and dark. Protect from direct sunlight.
Storage Position
With rim: stack flat or hang. Without rim: standing, rotate regularly.
Air Pressure
When storing with rim: increasing air pressure by 0.5 bar can help maintain shape.
Tire Markings Explained
M+S
Mud & Snow - Minimum requirement for winter tires in Austria until September 30, 2024. Newer tires require the 3PMSF symbol.
3PMSF
Mountain pictogram with snowflake - Shows that the tire has passed special winter tests. Mandatory marking for new winter tires since 2018.
DOT Number
Shows manufacturing date, e.g. "2523" = week 25, 2023. Last four digits are important.
Runflat (SSR/ROF)
Run-flat properties - can still be driven approx. 80 km at max. 80 km/h after a puncture. Not usable on all vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Tires
What does the situational winter tyre duty in Austria mean?
Situational means the duty depends on the road, not on the calendar alone. Between 1 November and 15 April you may only operate a class M1 or N1 vehicle in wintry road conditions (a snow-covered road, slush or ice), if winter tyres are fitted on all wheels (§ 102(8a) KFG). On a dry, snow-free road within that period you may also drive on summer tyres. Our detailed winter tyre guide explains when a change is practical.
Are all-season tires sufficient in Austria?
All-season tyres only satisfy the situational winter tyre duty if they carry the Alpine symbol (3PMSF) and have at least 4 mm of tread depth. The M+S marking alone has not been sufficient since 1 October 2024. In regions with heavy winter weather, dedicated winter tyres may offer better properties.
Does the winter tyre duty also apply to lorries and buses?
Yes, but as a calendar duty and with different end dates. For lorries of classes N2 and N3 it runs from 1 November to 15 April, for buses of classes M2 and M3 from 1 November to 15 March, regardless of road conditions. Winter tyres are required at least on the wheels of one drive axle (§ 102(8a) KFG). For lorries over 3.5 t the minimum tread depth is higher: 5 mm for radial and 6 mm for cross-ply tyres.
How long do winter tyres last?
Service life depends on driving style, mileage and storage. Two checkable values matter: tread depth and the production date in the DOT number. Below 4 mm a winter tyre no longer satisfies the winter tyre duty; as long as it stays above the 1.6 mm summer limit it may generally continue to be used as a summer tyre according to oesterreich.gv.at. Older tyres should also be checked for cracks and deformation.
Can I drive winter tires in summer?
Technically possible, but not recommended. Winter tires have longer braking distances in warm temperatures and higher wear. All-season tires can be an alternative, although they often represent compromises in both seasons.
What do the numbers mean when buying tires (e.g. 205/55 R16)?
205 = tire width in mm, 55 = height-width ratio in %, R = radial tire, 16 = rim diameter in inches. You can find this information in your Austrian vehicle registration (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I / Typenschein) or on the fuel cap.
⚖️ Important Notice: All information without guarantee. Prices, technical data and legal regulations may change. Always check current manufacturer specifications and legal requirements. We accept no liability for the accuracy of the information.
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