Rhode Island Studded Tire Law
Run studs November 15 to April 1, and only flat-head studs projecting 1/16 inch or less beyond the tread (R.I. Gen. Laws §31-23-20). No weight cap, so the window applies to your whole rig, and no out-of-state exception. Penalties follow the state tire-violation schedule (§31-41.1-4). Rhode Island sets no winter-tire mandate; studs are equipment, not a chain, and won't satisfy a chains-required order.
Running studs in Rhode Island
Run studs November 15 to April 1, and only flat-head studs projecting 1/16 inch or less beyond the tread (R.I. Gen. Laws §31-23-20). No weight cap, so the window applies to your whole rig, and no out-of-state exception. Penalties follow the state tire-violation schedule (§31-41.1-4). Rhode Island sets no winter-tire mandate; studs are equipment, not a chain, and won't satisfy a chains-required order.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: November 15 to April 1 (R.I. Gen. Laws §31-23-20)
- No Rhode Island winter-tire mandate. Studs are legal gear but not a chain — they don't clear a chains-required order. See the Rhode Island chain-law page for storm requirements.
Rhode Island Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Rhode Island?
When can you use studded tires in Rhode Island?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Rhode Island?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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/rhode-island/2022/title-31/chapter-31-23/section-31-23-20/. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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