Winter Tires in Québec: The Law, the Dates and When to Install Them
October 26, 2026 · 6 min read
Mandatory from December 1 to March 15: pictogram, minimum tread, fines, exemptions and the right time to book. Everything about winter tires in Québec.
In Québec, driving with winter tires isn't a suggestion — it's the law. The Highway Safety Code requires every passenger vehicle and taxi registered in Québec to be fitted with tires designed for winter during the cold season. Here are the exact dates, what makes a tire compliant, the wear to watch for and the right time to book.
What are the mandatory dates?
Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15 inclusively. The rule covers all passenger vehicles and taxis registered in Québec, rental vehicles included. After March 15, the government recommends waiting a few more weeks before switching back to summer tires: spring conditions remain unpredictable.
Don't aim for December 1 exactly. Garages are swamped in late November. Book as soon as temperatures drop below 7 °C, usually by mid-October or early November.
What fine do you risk?
Driving without winter tires during the mandatory period exposes you to a fine of $200 to $300, plus fees. The offence carries no demerit points, but it's still costly — and above all dangerous on the first icy road.
How do you recognize a compliant winter tire?
A compliant tire carries the mountain-with-snowflake pictogram on its sidewall, or is studded. The “M+S” (mud and snow) marking alone isn't enough: those all-season tires are not recognized as winter tires. The law looks at the pictogram, not the marketing name: a tire sold as “all-weather” that carries the pictogram is compliant.
What's the minimum tread for winter tires?
The legal minimum is 1.6 mm of tread depth, but a tire that worn has almost no bite in snow. The Québec government recommends at least 4.8 mm (6/32 in) in winter. In good condition, winter tires can cut braking distance by up to 25% compared with all-season tires, and they stay flexible down to −40 °C.
- The 25¢ test: insert a quarter into a groove, caribou nose pointing down. If you can see the whole muzzle, grip in deep snow will be poor.
- Check several grooves, in the center and on the edges: wear isn't always even.
- Watch the tire's age: rubber hardens over the years, even with plenty of tread left.
| Depth | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 4.8 mm (6/32 in) or more | Adequate winter grip | Get your tires installed |
| Between 1.6 and 4.8 mm | Legal, but weak in snow | Plan for new tires |
| Less than 1.6 mm | Below the legal minimum | Replace before driving |
Studded tires: which dates?
Studded tires are allowed from October 15 to May 1 on passenger vehicles, taxis and commercial vehicles weighing 3,000 kg or less. They count as winter tires during the mandatory period.
Who is exempt?
- A vehicle bought from a dealer, for the 7 days after purchase (keep the sales contract).
- The last 7 days of a lease of one year or more (keep the lease contract).
- A vehicle with an X plate or a transit certificate, for up to 7 days.
- Situations covered by a 7-day exemption certificate issued by the SAAQ.
- Spare wheels and vehicles registered outside Québec.
When should you take winter tires off?
Not before March 16, and ideally a few weeks later, once temperatures stay above 7 °C. On the other hand, don't keep them all summer: on hot asphalt, the soft rubber wears much faster, evacuates water less well and lengthens braking distances.
Why have tires installed at a garage?
Mounting, balancing and pressure adjustment require specialized equipment. Poor balancing causes vibration and uneven wear, and loosely torqued wheel nuts are dangerous. The garage can also inspect your brakes while the wheels are off — a smart move before winter.
Winter tires: frequently asked questions
Are all-season tires allowed in winter in Québec?
Only if they carry the mountain-and-snowflake pictogram. An all-season tire marked only “M+S” is not compliant from December 1 to March 15.
How many seasons do winter tires last?
Often 4 to 6 seasons, depending on mileage, driving style and storage. Go by tread depth and the condition of the rubber rather than the number of winters.
Do you need four winter tires or just two?
Four. The law covers all of the vehicle's tires, and fitting only two winter tires unbalances grip between the front and rear, which can make the vehicle skid.
Are winter tires on rims worth it?
Often, yes: the seasonal changeover is faster and cheaper, and you avoid mounting and unmounting the tires twice a year. Mention it in your request so the garage can adjust its price.
How do I find a garage to install my tires?
On UnyCars, choose “Tires”, then “Changeover”, and say whether your tires are on rims. Garages in your area send you their offers and availability; only the one you choose receives your contact details.
Book before the rush
Instead of calling garages one by one, submit your need on UnyCars in two minutes: describe your vehicle and tires, choose your area, and available garages near you send their offers and availability.