Overview
- Since late 2024 only tires with the Alpine three‑peak mountain snowflake qualify for winter use, so the older M+S marking alone no longer suffices.
- Germany’s situational mandate brings fines of €60 and one point for drivers caught on improper tires in wintry conditions, €75 and one point for vehicle owners, and €80 if others are hindered.
- Insurers may reduce or deny payouts after crashes on summer or non‑qualifying tires in winter conditions, with possible complications for liability coverage.
- Austria enforces a winter‑equipment obligation through April 15 with penalties starting around €100 and rising to €10,000 if others are endangered, and snow chains are permitted only on snow‑covered roads; travelers should verify country‑specific rules.
- All‑season tires bearing the Alpine symbol can spare seasonal swaps for light or urban use, yet clubs advise at least 4 mm tread depth for winter grip versus the 1.6 mm legal minimum.