Oregon Studded Tire Law

Studs are legal November 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.160/815.165), and Oregon doesn't ban them by weight. Your truck can run them in season, but they must be lightweight studs projecting 0.04 to 0.06 inch. Out of season it's a Class C traffic violation. The rig catch: over 10,000 lb GVW or towing, studs and traction tires don't count as chains. When chains are posted, use real ones, or a truck registered under ORS chapter 826 faces an $880 presumptive fine (ORS 815.140).

Metal studsSeasonal window

SeasonNovember 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.165)

FineOut-of-season or illegal studs are a Class C traffic violation

StatuteORS 815.160 / 815.165

01 Legality

Running studs in Oregon

02 Season & traction

The window and winter-tire rules

Season: November 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.165); ODOT communicates the practical window as November 1 through March 31. Retractable studded tires allowed year-round if engaged only in season.
On any vehicle over 10,000 lb GVW or towing, studded and traction tires do NOT substitute for chains - when 'chains required' is posted you must carry and use actual chains regardless of your studs. Studs must also be the lightweight type (ORS 815.167). See the Oregon chain-law page.

Oregon Studded Tire FAQ

Are studded tires legal in Oregon?

Seasonal window. The window is November 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.165); ODOT communicates the practical window as November 1 through March 31. Retractable studded tires allowed year-round if engaged only in season.. Studs are legal November 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.160/815.165), and Oregon doesn't ban them by weight.

When can you use studded tires in Oregon?

November 1 to April 1 (ORS 815.165); ODOT communicates the practical window as November 1 through March 31. Retractable studded tires allowed year-round if engaged only in season.

What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Oregon?

Out-of-season or illegal studs are a Class C traffic violation (ORS 815.160). Failing to use required traction tires or chains is a specific fine traffic violation with an $880 presumptive fine when the vehicle is registered under ORS chapter 826, and a Class C violation otherwise (ORS 815.140). Failing to carry them where signs require it is a Class C violation (ORS 815.142).

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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://www.oregon.gov/odot/mct/pages/chains-and-traction-tires.aspx. See our Terms & Disclaimer.

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Oregon Studded Tire Law

Running studs in Oregon

The window and winter-tire rules

Oregon Studded Tire FAQ

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