Arkansas Studded Tire Law
Arkansas is one of the few states in the region where a heavy truck can legally run metal studs. They are allowed November 15 to April 15 (Ark. Code 27-37-402), with studs projecting no more than 1/16 inch past the tread. The stud statute sets no GVW cap, so a loaded truck is covered in season. Run them outside that window and it is a misdemeanor, $25 to $50. A built-in trigger ends the allowance if federal law ever bans studs.
Running studs in Arkansas
Arkansas is one of the few states in the region where a heavy truck can legally run metal studs. They are allowed November 15 to April 15 (Ark. Code 27-37-402), with studs projecting no more than 1/16 inch past the tread. The stud statute sets no GVW cap, so a loaded truck is covered in season. Run them outside that window and it is a misdemeanor, $25 to $50. A built-in trigger ends the allowance if federal law ever bans studs.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: November 15 to April 15 (Ark. Code 27-37-402)
- No M+S/3PMSF traction-tire mandate. Chains are allowed for safety when roads are slick. Studs are not chains and do not satisfy a chain-control order. See the Arkansas chain-law page.
Arkansas Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Arkansas?
When can you use studded tires in Arkansas?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Arkansas?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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/arkansas/title-27/subtitle-3/chapter-37/subchapter-4/section-27-37-402/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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