Yes, studded tires are legal in Romania but subject to strict seasonal and regional restrictions enforced by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure (MTI). Their use is permitted only from November 1 to March 31 in areas designated by local authorities, with penalties up to RON 2,000 (€400) for violations. Winter tire obligations (including studded variants) were reinforced in 2023 via MTI Order 1,500/2023, aligning with EU winter mobility directives.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Romania
- Seasonal Window: Mandatory use permitted only between November 1 and March 31, with exceptions for mountainous regions (e.g., Carpathians) where authorities may extend periods.
- Speed Limits: Maximum speed reduced to 90 km/h on highways and 70 km/h on national roads when using studded tires (Government Decision 1,076/2022).
- Approval Requirements: Tires must comply with UNECE Regulation 109 and display the “M+S” or “3PMSF” symbol; studded variants require additional MTI certification.
Local traffic police (Poliția Rutieră) conduct spot checks, particularly in counties like Brașov and Sibiu, where winter conditions persist. Non-compliance triggers fines and potential vehicle immobilization. The MTI’s 2026 compliance roadmap emphasizes stricter enforcement via digital monitoring systems in high-risk zones.