Massachusetts Studded Tire Law
Metal studs are legal November 1 to April 30; the statute bans them May 1 to November 1 (M.G.L. c.90 §16), fine not more than $50. The Registrar can okay studs before November 1 when weather demands. No GVW cap, so a loaded truck follows the same season, and there's no out-of-state carve-out. Massachusetts has no winter-tire mandate, and studs don't count as chains.
Running studs in Massachusetts
Metal studs are legal November 1 to April 30; the statute bans them May 1 to November 1 (M.G.L. c.90 §16), fine not more than $50. The Registrar can okay studs before November 1 when weather demands. No GVW cap, so a loaded truck follows the same season, and there's no out-of-state carve-out. Massachusetts has no winter-tire mandate, and studs don't count as chains.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: November 1 to April 30 (metal studs barred May 1 to November 1 — M.G.L. c.90 §16)
- Massachusetts sets no winter-tire (M+S/3PMSF) requirement. Studs are equipment, not a traction device — a chains/traction order isn't satisfied by studs. See the Massachusetts chain-law page.
Massachusetts Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Massachusetts?
When can you use studded tires in Massachusetts?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Massachusetts?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXIV/Chapter90/Section16. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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