Texas Studded Tire Law
Metal studs are illegal in Texas, in every month. A tire may not carry any block, stud, cleat, or spike of a material other than rubber that projects past the tread (Tex. Transp. Code 547.612). There is no season and no weight break — the ban is flat, cars and loaded trucks alike. The only add-on Texas allows is tire chains, and only when the road is slick enough to skid. Pull the chains off bare pavement.
Running studs in Texas
Metal studs are illegal in Texas, in every month. A tire may not carry any block, stud, cleat, or spike of a material other than rubber that projects past the tread (Tex. Transp. Code 547.612). There is no season and no weight break — the ban is flat, cars and loaded trucks alike. The only add-on Texas allows is tire chains, and only when the road is slick enough to skid. Pull the chains off bare pavement.
The window and winter-tire rules
- Season: Metal studs prohibited year-round
- No winter-tire or M+S/3PMSF traction-tire law. Tire chains are allowed only when a skid condition demands them (547.612), and you pull them once the pavement is bare. Studs are not chains and never satisfy a chain-control order. See the Texas chain-law page.
Texas Studded Tire FAQ
Are studded tires legal in Texas?
When can you use studded tires in Texas?
What is the fine for illegal studded tires in Texas?
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 Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it.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://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.547.htm. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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