Wyoming Tire Chain Laws
Up to $250 is the fine for busting a posted restriction, and up to $750 if that causes an incident closing all lanes (WS 31-5-956). WYDOT posts two levels. Level 1 takes chains, snow tires, or all-wheel drive. Level 2 takes chains, or AWD with mud-and-snow tires. When chains are ordered, run them on at least two drive wheels at opposite ends of one drive axle. Expect it on I-80 and WY 28 (South Pass), though WYDOT can post it on any highway. High-profile rigs banned in high wind. Check WYDOT 511.
How Wyoming handles chains
Up to $250 is the fine for busting a posted restriction, and up to $750 if that causes an incident closing all lanes (WS 31-5-956). WYDOT posts two levels. Level 1 takes chains, snow tires, or all-wheel drive. Level 2 takes chains, or AWD with mud-and-snow tires. When chains are ordered, run them on at least two drive wheels at opposite ends of one drive axle. Expect it on I-80 and WY 28 (South Pass), though WYDOT can post it on any highway. High-profile rigs banned in high wind. Check WYDOT 511.
When, where, and what counts
- When required: No fixed season. WYDOT posts a Level 1 or Level 2 restriction in real time when conditions turn hazardous, shown on variable message signs. It can apply to any highway the DOT names.
- Where: I-80 across southern Wyoming and WY 28 over South Pass, where WYDOT keeps live chain-law tables. WYDOT can post it on any other highway, and high-wind corridors add light-vehicle bans.
- Applies to: All vehicles, trucks included, when a Level 1 or Level 2 restriction is posted. Under Level 2 a conventional tractor-trailer needs chains. Light and high-profile vehicles can be barred outright in extreme wind.
- Chains vs traction devices: Level 1 accepts chains, adequate mud-and-snow tires, or all-wheel drive. Level 2 requires chains, or AWD with adequate M+S tires. When chains are ordered a commercial vehicle runs them on at least two drive wheels at opposite ends of the same drive axle. The statute defines tire chains broadly, so a textile device like AutoSock can qualify if it gives traction equal to metal chains. Carry metal chains as your fallback.
- Check the live order: WYDOT 511 for the active Level 1 or Level 2 restriction: the live chain-law table at wyoroad.info/Highway/conditions/ChainLaw.html, the Wyoming 511 mobile app, 511 inside Wyoming, or 1-888-WYO-ROAD (1-888-996-7623) nationwide; variable message signs and closures show the order and any light-vehicle ban.
- Fine: Up to $250 for violating a posted Level 1 or Level 2 restriction, a misdemeanor, and up to $750 if the violation results in an incident that closes all lanes in one or both directions (WS 31-5-956(j)).
Wyoming Chain Law FAQ
Does Wyoming have a tire chain law?
When are chains required in Wyoming?
Where do Wyoming's chain requirements apply?
Does Wyoming 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 September 2026. Source: https://www.dot.state.wy.us/home/travel/winter/chain_law.html. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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