Alaska Studded Tire Law
When studs are legal depends on latitude. They're barred on paved roads May 1 to September 15 north of 60 degrees North, April 15 to September 30 south of 60 degrees North, and May 1 to September 15 on the Sterling Highway (AS 28.35.155). No weight cap - trucks may run studs in season. A violation is a $50 correctable fine, no points. Anchorage city limits push the legal start to October 1, so check local rules.
Running studs in Alaska
When studs are legal depends on latitude. They're barred on paved roads May 1 to September 15 north of 60 degrees North, April 15 to September 30 south of 60 degrees North, and May 1 to September 15 on the Sterling Highway (AS 28.35.155). No weight cap - trucks may run studs in season. A violation is a $50 correctable fine, no points. Anchorage city limits push the legal start to October 1, so check local rules.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: Studs barred on paved roads May 1 to September 15 north of 60 degrees N latitude, April 15 to September 30 south of 60 degrees N, and May 1 to September 15 on the Sterling Highway (AS 28.35.155). Legal the rest of the year. Anchorage municipal ordinance delays the legal start to October 1 inside city limits.
- Alaska DOT&PF posts chain signs only after the commissioner certifies by order that vehicles without chains may not use the road (Alaska Traffic Manual Supplement, Section 2B.106). A CHAINS REQUIRED ON ALL VEHICLES sign (R12-105) means chains, and studs do not satisfy it. A STUDS OR CHAINS REQUIRED NEXT XX MILES sign (R12-108) accepts in-season studded tires. An individual traction permit from the Department of Administration can authorize studs outside the normal season. See the Alaska chain-law page.
Alaska Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Alaska?
When can you use studded tires in Alaska?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Alaska?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://dot.alaska.gov/gen_travelinfo.shtml. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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