Georgia Studded Tire Law
Georgia bans metal tires generally, then carves out metal spike studs and chains only when snow, ice, or other skid conditions require them (O.C.G.A. §40-8-74). No calendar season, no GVW weight cap — but you can't run metal studs on bare dry pavement. A violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $1,000 under O.C.G.A. §17-10-3. No winter-tire mandate exists, and studs don't satisfy a chain-control order.
Running studs in Georgia
Georgia bans metal tires generally, then carves out metal spike studs and chains only when snow, ice, or other skid conditions require them (O.C.G.A. §40-8-74). No calendar season, no GVW weight cap — but you can't run metal studs on bare dry pavement. A violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $1,000 under O.C.G.A. §17-10-3. No winter-tire mandate exists, and studs don't satisfy a chain-control order.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: No calendar window. Metal spike studs are permitted only when snow, ice, or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to skid require them for safety (O.C.G.A. §40-8-74), not as year-round equipment.
- No M+S/3PMSF winter-tire law. Georgia's north-mountain routes can require chains/traction in an ice event; studs are not chains and don't satisfy a chain order — see the Georgia chain-law page. Tire chains are allowed on the same condition-only basis as metal studs.
Georgia Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Georgia?
When can you use studded tires in Georgia?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Georgia?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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/georgia/title-40/chapter-8/article-1/part-4/section-40-8-74/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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