Austria's winter obligations for trucks over 3.5 tonnes begin on 1 November 2026 and run until 15 April 2027. Foreign hauliers follow the same rules. The heavy-truck tyre requirement applies throughout the period, even when the road is clear.
Which tyres are required?
Winter tyres must be fitted to every wheel of at least one driven axle. Qualifying tyres carry M+S, M.S, M&S or a snowflake marking. All-season tyres count only with an accepted winter marking.
Minimum winter tread depth is 5 mm for radial tyres and 6 mm for cross-ply tyres. Measure before departure because a tyre that only just complies may fall below the limit during a long trip.
Carrying snow chains
During the same period the truck must carry suitable chains for at least two tyres on a driven axle. They must match the tyre size and are fitted on snow- or ice-covered roads when conditions or signs require. Winter tyres do not cancel the duty to carry chains.
Haulier checklist
Check every wheel on the selected driven axle, measure tread, confirm the markings, carry at least two correctly sized chains and allow time for fitting. Keep chains accessible on routes through Tyrol and other mountain regions.
Non-compliance can lead to sanctions and a prohibition on continuing the journey. Combine possible winter delays with EU driving and rest limits.
Official source
- [Austrian Federal Government: compulsory winter tyres](https://www.oesterreich.gv.at/en/themen/mobilitaet/kfz/10/2/Seite.063100)
Information checked on 9 September 2026. Verify current official notices and road signs before departure.