Washington Studded Tire Law

Running studs in Washington

Metal studs are illegal on any vehicle 10,000 lb GVW or over (WAC 204-24-030) - a loaded rig can't run them in any month, so the November-to-April season is written for cars, not you. Under 10,000 lb, studs are legal November 1 to April 1, but troopers start ticketing April 1, so pull them by March 31 unless WSDOT extends. The fine is $137, and studs never satisfy a chain-control order.

The window and winter-tire rules

• Season: November 1 to April 1 for vehicles under 10,000 lb (season set by RCW 46.37.420); WSP writes tickets starting April 1, so remove by March 31 unless WSDOT extends. Prohibited entirely on any vehicle 10,000 lb GVW or over (WAC 204-24-030(6); school buses and fire equipment exempt). Retractable studs allowed year-round if they retract below the wear bar and engage only Nov 1-Apr 1.
• Vehicles over 10,000 lb GVW must carry chains November 1 to April 1 on chain-required routes and chain up when signs or WSP order it. Studs are NOT an approved traction device and never satisfy a chain-control order. See the Washington chain-law page.

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