Yes, studded tires are legal in New Mexico but subject to seasonal and regional restrictions enforced by the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT). State regulations align with federal guidelines, permitting studded tires only from October 15 to April 15 annually, with local jurisdictions permitted to impose stricter limits. Compliance requires adherence to NMDOT’s 2026 updates, which mandate studded tire use only on designated snow and ice routes during declared winter weather events.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in New Mexico
- Seasonal Restrictions: NMDOT mandates studded tire usage exclusively between October 15 and April 15, aligning with federal winter road safety protocols.
- Local Jurisdictional Authority: Counties and municipalities may impose additional prohibitions or permit requirements, particularly in urban areas like Albuquerque or Santa Fe.
- Weather-Dependent Compliance: Studded tires may only be used on NMDOT-designated routes during officially declared winter weather advisories, per 2026 enforcement directives.
Failure to comply risks citations under NMDOT’s traffic safety statutes, with penalties escalating for repeat violations. Motorists must verify route-specific regulations via NMDOT’s winter road advisory system before installation.