Idaho Studded Tire Law
Run metal studs October 1 through April 30 (Idaho Code 49-948); off-season, May 1 to September 30, they draw a $67 equipment ticket. Idaho sets no GVW cap, so a loaded truck can legally run studs in season, but they must be the lightweight type the statute spells out, capped by stud weight (by size) and projecting no more than .06 inch. Studs are not chains and do not satisfy a posted chain-up order on Idaho's mountain routes.
Running studs in Idaho
Run metal studs October 1 through April 30 (Idaho Code 49-948); off-season, May 1 to September 30, they draw a $67 equipment ticket. Idaho sets no GVW cap, so a loaded truck can legally run studs in season, but they must be the lightweight type the statute spells out, capped by stud weight (by size) and projecting no more than .06 inch. Studs are not chains and do not satisfy a posted chain-up order on Idaho's mountain routes.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: October 1 to April 30 (Idaho Code 49-948). Metal studs are illegal on the road May 1 through September 30; retractable studs may be carried year-round (they may protrude beyond the wear bar only October 1 through April 30).
- No statewide M+S or 3PMSF winter-tire mandate. Idaho posts chain-up/traction orders on mountain corridors (I-84, US-95, US-12); studs are not chains and do not satisfy a posted chain-control order, so chain up when the sign is lit. Idaho also requires lightweight studs (weight capped by stud size in Idaho Code 49-948), projecting no more than .06 inch. Truck weight cap: none, studs legal for trucks in season.
Idaho Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Idaho?
When can you use studded tires in Idaho?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Idaho?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title49/t49ch9/sect49-948/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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