The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is reminding drivers that studded tires are legal for use only from November 1 through March 31 in Washington state.

Key Rules to Know

Studded tires may be used only during the winter‑season window (Nov. 1 – Mar. 31). There are no personal exceptions or out‑of‑state waivers—all vehicles in Washington must follow this rule.

Having studded tires does not exempt you from chain requirements when those are posted. If a roadway or mountain pass has a “chains required” sign, studded tires alone do not count—you must carry and install chains when required.

WSDOT estimates studded‑tire use causes between $20 million and $29 million in damage annually to state‑owned asphalt and concrete roadways.

Reasons & Alternatives

The damage stems

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