Quebec's Winter Tire Mandate: What You Need to Know in 2026

Quebec's Winter Tire Law: Mandatory Dates and Requirements

Quebec mandates winter tires from December 1 to March 15 each year. This is not a suggestion. It's a legal requirement. All vehicles operating on Quebec roads during this period must have winter tires installed. Winter tires must have an Alpine Peak symbol or meet specific tread depth requirements. Failure to comply results in fines and potential liability if you're involved in an accident.

What Qualifies as Legal Winter Tires in Quebec

Winter tires must have the Alpine Peak symbol (a mountain with three peaks and a snowflake) on the sidewall. This indicates the tire meets severe winter performance standards. Alternatively, tires must have a minimum tread depth of 3.5mm specifically for winter conditions. All-season tires, regardless of tread depth, do not meet Quebec requirements. Studded tires are allowed with restrictions.

Quebec Winter Tire Requirements Checklist

• Alpine Peak symbol on tire sidewall required
• Minimum tread depth of 3.5mm for winter tires
• All-season tires are not acceptable
• Tires must be installed on all four wheels
• Compliance required December 1 to March 15
• Studded tires allowed but with restrictions
• Vehicle must pass inspection if stopped

Penalties for Non-Compliance in Quebec

Fines for driving without proper winter tires in Quebec range from $60 to $300. First offenses typically result in $60-$100 fines. Repeat violations increase penalties. If you're involved in an accident while not in compliance, insurance may deny claims and liability increases significantly. Fines also apply if you're stopped by police during the mandatory period without proper tires.

Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance

• Fine of $60 to $300
• Insurance claim denial in accidents
• Increased personal liability in collisions
• Vehicle inspection failure
• Repeat offense penalties escalate
• Potential criminal charges in severe accidents
• Increased insurance premiums

How to Ensure Compliance Before December 1

Schedule your winter tire installation in October or November, before the December 1 deadline. Don't wait until December as shops become overwhelmed. Confirm your tires have the Alpine Peak symbol. Check your tires' tread depth to ensure they meet the 3.5mm minimum. If you're unsure whether your current tires qualify, ask your mechanic. Local shops can verify compliance and handle installation.

Studded Tires: Restrictions and Rules

Studded winter tires are legal in Quebec but only from November 1 to March 31. They must be clearly marked as studded on the vehicle. Speed limits are reduced to 100 km/h on highways when using studded tires. Studded tires cause road damage, so they're restricted to harsh winter conditions. Most Quebec drivers use studless winter tires, which are quieter and cause less road damage while providing excellent grip.

Why Other Canadian Provinces Have Similar Laws

Quebec isn't alone. British Columbia, Ontario, and several other provinces require winter tires during specific periods. Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba don't mandate winter tires but strongly recommend them. If you drive across provinces, ensure your tires meet the strictest requirement of any province you visit. Quebec's December 1 to March 15 window is among the most clearly defined in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions