Overview

• Germany’s winter-tyre obligation is tied to actual road conditions such as ice, snow or slush, and the common “October to Easter” rule is only guidance.
• Winter tyres must carry the Alpine (three‑peak mountain snowflake) symbol since October 2024, and M+S-only markings no longer qualify for winter use.
• The four-digit DOT code on the sidewall shows the manufacture week and year, and tyres older than about six years should be checked by a professional.
• The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, while ACE recommends about 3 mm for safer grip, and violations can bring fines and a point in Flensburg.
• After crashes where unsuitable tyres played a role, insurers may pursue recourse claims of up to €5,000, and ADAC notes all-season tyres remain a compromise best for low‑mileage city driving.