New Jersey Tire Chain Laws
New Jersey has no chain-up law for trucks. Chains are legal only while snow or ice makes the road slippery, and you take them off once the pavement clears (39:3-73). No DOT sign turns a chain requirement on anywhere in the state. Your one duty is to drive for the conditions and stop when traction fails. Carry chains for the mountains you cross next, not for New Jersey.
How New Jersey handles chains
New Jersey has no chain-up law for trucks. Chains are legal only while snow or ice makes the road slippery, and you take them off once the pavement clears (39:3-73). No DOT sign turns a chain requirement on anywhere in the state. Your one duty is to drive for the conditions and stop when traction fails. Carry chains for the mountains you cross next, not for New Jersey.
When, where, and what counts
- When required: Never mandated. Chains are optional and legal only while snow or ice makes the road slippery. No sign, board, or DOT order activates a chain requirement in New Jersey.
- Where: No mandate anywhere in the state. Voluntary traction is most useful on I-80 and I-287 through the northwest highlands and on I-78 west of the ridge.
- Applies to: All vehicles may run chains for safety; none are required. No CMV or weight threshold applies.
- Chains vs traction devices: Chains must be of reasonable proportions and mounted so they cannot be thrown and endanger anyone (39:3-73). Cable chains and textile devices like AutoSock are legal to run for traction, but nothing is required.
- Check the live order: 511nj.org or NJDOT for road and weather conditions. There is no chain-control status to check because none exists.
- Fine: None for chains. Chains are optional, so there is no chain-up penalty. Running chains on bare pavement when conditions do not warrant it is a minor equipment violation.
New Jersey Chain Law FAQ
Does New Jersey have a tire chain law?
When are chains required in New Jersey?
Where do New Jersey's chain requirements apply?
Does New Jersey accept AutoSock or alternative traction devices?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/title-39/section-39-3-73/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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