Photo: Wilfredor, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
In Quebec, winter tires are compulsory from 1 December to 15 March on every motor vehicle registered in the province, rental cars included. A tire counts only if it carries the mountain-and-snowflake pictogram or is studded, and drivers who do not comply face a fine of $200 to $300. This page covers the dates, exceptions, tread depth and studded tire rules, and is part of the Quebec learner driver guide. For winter driving technique across Canada, see winter driving in Canada for new drivers.
Key facts
- Compulsory period: 1 December to 15 March.
- Applies to all motor vehicles registered in Quebec, including rentals.
- Fine: $200 to $300.
- Valid winter tire: pictogram (mountain with snowflake) or studded.
- Studded tires allowed 15 October to 1 May on passenger vehicles.
When do you need winter tires in Quebec?
From 1 December to 15 March. The Government of Quebec recommends waiting until a few weeks after 15 March before switching back to all-season or summer tires, because spring conditions vary.
What counts as a winter tire in Quebec?
To comply, a tire designed for winter driving must carry the winter pictogram (a mountain with a snowflake) or be studded. Reshaped or remodelled tires for passenger vehicles must also have the pictogram or be studded. A tire marked only “M+S” (mud and snow) without the pictogram does not meet the rule.
Who is exempt?
The requirement does not apply to:
- vehicles registered outside Quebec
- trailers, heavy vehicles, utility vehicles and farm machinery
- spare tires
- motorcycles used as emergency vehicles
- motor homes used permanently as homes
- a newly bought vehicle for 7 days from purchase from a dealer (keep the bill of sale)
- a leased vehicle in the 7 days before a lease of a year or more ends (keep the lease)
- vehicles with a dealer plate (X plate), or with a temporary registration certificate (transit) for its validity, up to 7 days
The SAAQ can also issue a free 7-day winter tire exemption certificate, through SAAQclic or at a service centre, for certain situations. The SAAQ limits how many certificates one vehicle can get each winter.
Studded tires: dates
Studded tires are allowed from 15 October to 1 May on passenger vehicles, taxis and commercial vehicles with a total loaded mass of 3,000 kg or less. Outside those dates they are not permitted.
How much tread do winter tires need?
| Measure | Depth |
|---|---|
| Minimum groove depth | 1.6 mm |
| Recommended in winter | At least 4.8 mm |
The quarter test: put a quarter in a groove with the caribou’s nose pointing down. If you can see the caribou’s snout, the tire will not grip well in deep snow. Check several grooves in different places.
Why it matters for learners
- Your road test car, if registered in Quebec, must have winter tires between 1 December and 15 March. See the SAAQ road test guide.
- Winter tires in good condition can cut braking distance by 25%, according to the Government of Quebec, but they are no guarantee: slow down and leave more space.
- Plan winter practice drives with your accompanying rider once winter tires are on: see Quebec learner’s licence rules.
- Pack a winter kit: shovel, scraper, snow brush, traction mats, a blanket, flashlight, booster cables, water and food are on the Quebec government’s list.
Should you keep winter tires on in summer?
No. The Government of Quebec says winter tires wear faster in warm weather, raising the risk of a blowout, clear water less well (so more aquaplaning), and can take longer to stop than all-season tires on wet pavement.
Common questions
What is the winter tire deadline in Quebec?
1 December. They must stay on until at least 15 March.
What is the fine for no winter tires in Quebec?
$200 to $300, plus costs.
I am visiting from Ontario. Do I need winter tires?
The rule does not apply to vehicles registered outside Quebec. Winter tires are still strongly advised.
Do rental cars in Quebec have winter tires?
Rental vehicles registered in Quebec must have them from 1 December to 15 March.
Are all-season tires legal in Quebec in winter?
Not during 1 December to 15 March unless they carry the mountain-and-snowflake pictogram.
Sources
- Government of Quebec, “Requirements for winter tires” (quebec.ca)
- Government of Quebec, “Preparing your vehicle for winter driving” (quebec.ca)
- SAAQ, “Winter Preparation” (saaq.gouv.qc.ca)
- SAAQ, “Online Service: Obtaining a Winter Tire Exemption Certificate” (saaq.gouv.qc.ca)