Indiana Studded Tire Law
Studs are legal October 1 to May 1 (IC 9-19-18-3), and no GVW cap keeps them off a loaded truck. Metal or carbide studs, including retractable ones, may not project more than 3/32 inch beyond the tread. Retractable studs can stay mounted all year if retracted May 2 through September 30. The October-to-May window is the enforced date, and running studs off-season is a Class C infraction. Chains are allowed when snow or ice calls for them; a stud is never a chain.
Running studs in Indiana
Studs are legal October 1 to May 1 (IC 9-19-18-3), and no GVW cap keeps them off a loaded truck. Metal or carbide studs, including retractable ones, may not project more than 3/32 inch beyond the tread. Retractable studs can stay mounted all year if retracted May 2 through September 30. The October-to-May window is the enforced date, and running studs off-season is a Class C infraction. Chains are allowed when snow or ice calls for them; a stud is never a chain.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: October 1 to May 1 (IC 9-19-18-3). Retractable studs may stay mounted year-round if kept retracted May 2 through September 30.
- No mandatory M+S or 3PMSF traction-tire rule. Chains are allowed when conditions call for them. Legal in-season studs are an equipment allowance, not a substitute for chains in a chain-control order. See the Indiana tire-chain page.
Indiana Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Indiana?
When can you use studded tires in Indiana?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Indiana?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://faqs.in.gov/hc/en-us/articles/115005063487-Are-tire-chains-and-studs-legal-in-Indiana. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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