Illinois Tire Chain Laws

How Illinois handles chains

Illinois has no chain law for trucks. Chains are permitted, not required (625 ILCS 5/12-401). You may run chains of reasonable proportion when snow or ice would make you skid. No DOT posts R-1, R-2, or a Chains Required order in Illinois. Willfully damaging a highway is a Class A misdemeanor (625 ILCS 5/11-312). Slow down on I-80 and check Getting Around Illinois.

When, where, and what counts

• When required: Chains are optional. There is no seasonal activation and no chain-control system. IDOT never posts R-1/R-2/R-3 or 'Chains Required' signs. You may run chains any time snow or ice would make a vehicle skid.
• Where: No mandate anywhere. Voluntary traction on I-80, I-88, I-39, and I-55 during winter storms. Illinois has no mountain passes and no chain-control corridors.
• Applies to: No CMV chain mandate and no weight threshold. The tire-equipment statute applies to all vehicles equally, and only when a driver chooses to run chains.
• Chains vs traction devices: Chains of reasonable proportion are allowed (625 ILCS 5/12-401) when snow, ice, or other skid conditions make them necessary for safety. No device is mandated, so AutoSock is neither required nor prohibited, and no weight threshold forces real chains.
• Check the live order: Getting Around Illinois (gettingaroundillinois.com), IDOT's winter road-conditions map, for live conditions. Illinois issues no chain-control order.
• Fine: No chain-up fine, because chains aren't required. Metal projections on road wheels outside the snow and ice chain allowance (625 ILCS 5/12-401) fall under the default penalty (625 ILCS 5/16-104): a petty offense for a first or second conviction, a Class C misdemeanor for a third within one year. Willfully damaging a highway is a separate offense, a Class A misdemeanor with a fine of at least $250 (625 ILCS 5/11-312).

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