South Carolina Tire Chain Laws
South Carolina has no chain-up mandate for trucks. Chains are permitted, not required. You may run tire chains of reasonable proportions when snow or ice makes them needed for safety (S.C. Code 56-5-5040). SCDOT posts no R-1 levels or 'Chains Required' signs. The Upstate and Blue Ridge grades on I-26 are where you might chain by choice. Studded tires are allowed within limits. Check 511sc.org or 511.
How South Carolina handles chains
South Carolina has no chain-up mandate for trucks. Chains are permitted, not required. You may run tire chains of reasonable proportions when snow or ice makes them needed for safety (S.C. Code 56-5-5040). SCDOT posts no R-1 levels or 'Chains Required' signs. The Upstate and Blue Ridge grades on I-26 are where you might chain by choice. Studded tires are allowed within limits. Check 511sc.org or 511.
When, where, and what counts
- When required: Optional. SCDOT posts no chain order and no chain-control signs. Chains are allowed for traction in snow and ice, never required.
- Where: No mandate. The Upstate around Greenville and the Blue Ridge grades on I-26 and US-11 are the spots where you might chain up by choice in a rare storm.
- Applies to: No CMV chain mandate. The permissive rule applies to any vehicle, with no weight threshold.
- Chains vs traction devices: Chains of reasonable proportions are allowed when snow or ice makes them needed for safety (S.C. Code 56-5-5040). Studded tires are allowed if studs project no more than 1/16 inch beyond the tread. No posted device tiers, so cable chains or AutoSock are a driver choice.
- Check the live order: SCDOT traffic at 511sc.org, or dial 511.
- Fine: No chain-up fine, because chains are not required. Chains are optional for safety.
South Carolina Chain Law FAQ
Does South Carolina have a tire chain law?
When are chains required in South Carolina?
Where do South Carolina's chain requirements apply?
Does South Carolina 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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t56c005.php. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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