MileCheckDo you need snow tires in Washington, Oregon or Colorado?
The answer depends on your route, vehicle and the posted restriction. Buying snow tires does not remove every chain requirement. Check the tire markings and carry equipment that fits your car.
Facts checked September 2026. Every number links to its source; prices and rules change, so confirm the day you travel.
Washington
Washington recognises approved traction tires with qualifying markings and at least 1/8-inch tread. Its normal AWD chain exception has conditions, including carrying chains. A restriction covering all vehicles removes that exception.
Before Snoqualmie or Stevens Pass, read the current pass restriction.
Washington State Patrol traction rules.
Oregon
Oregon permits traction tires instead of chains for qualifying lighter vehicles in some conditions. That is not an exemption from every restriction. Read the posted requirement before Siskiyou Pass or Cabbage Hill.
Its severe-snow tire symbol is the three-peak mountain with a snowflake. Do not assume M+S alone meets the same definition.
Oregon chain law · ODOT traction tires.
Colorado
Under CDOT’s current passenger traction guidance, AWD or 4WD needs qualifying tires with at least 3/16-inch tread. Chains or an approved alternative are the other option. Winter tires alone are not the listed option for two-wheel drive.
The stricter Passenger Vehicle Chain Law requires devices on all vehicles. Check I-70, including Vail Pass and the Eisenhower Tunnel approaches.
CDOT passenger-vehicle traction law.
Studded tires have their own calendar
| State | Normal permitted studded-tire season |
|---|---|
| Washington | November 1 through March 31. WSDOT can authorise additional periods. |
| Oregon | November 1 through March 31. Check current ODOT notices before relying on an extension. |
These dates concern metal studs, not every winter tire. They do not determine whether chains are required on your route.
Washington State Patrol traction rules · ODOT traction tires.
Ask for the actual tires on a rental
Ask the pickup branch for the tire markings and compatible traction equipment. “SUV” does not answer either question. If the company cannot confirm suitable equipment, change the vehicle or route before pickup.
Use the chains and all-season tire guide to compare the restrictions. This page covers passenger travel, not commercial trucks or trailer combinations.
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Questions, answered
Are snow tires and studded tires the same?
No. Studded tires have metal studs. A winter tire need not have them.
Do the stud dates tell you when chains are required?
No. Read the current road restriction separately.
Is M+S the same marking as the mountain snowflake?
No. Check the state’s definition rather than treating them as interchangeable.
Does a rental SUV settle the question?
No. Ask about the drivetrain, tire markings and compatible traction devices.
Can Colorado require traction equipment away from I-70?
Yes. CDOT can activate traction and chain laws on other state highways.
Does this cover a pickup towing a trailer?
No. Check the state’s vehicle-weight and towing rules.
Washington mile markers · Washington cameras · Oregon mile markers · Oregon cameras · Colorado mile markers · Colorado cameras · Snoqualmie Pass · Siskiyou Pass · Vail Pass · Stevens Pass · Eisenhower Tunnel approaches · Chains or all-season tires