What Is the Law on Studded Snow Tires in the State of Maine?

Studded snow tires help driving on harsh winter roads.

Studded snow tires can offer an added margin of safety on the icy roads in Maine. It is important to check the laws of any state when traveling with studded snow tires. There are some restrictions in Maine.

Dates

Maine permits the use of studded snow tires from Oct. 1 through May 1. According to Maine statutes, tires with metal studs, wires, spikes or other metal protruding from the tire tread are prohibited from the first day of May to the first day of October.

Extension of Use

The Commissioner of Transportation in Maine issues permits for an extension of the time that studded tires may be used. The commissioner determines the cost, which may not be less than $3 or more than $15.

Embedded Studs

The state allows embedded studs in tires year-round. These tires can be kept on the vehicle with the studs retracted and can only be extended from the first day of May to the first day of October.

References

• Maine Revised Statutes: Studded tires
• Maine State Law: What is the Law on Studded Snow Tires?

Resources

• Tire Information World: Tire Stud Regulations