Tyre changing rules in Latvia
According to Latvian law, winter tyres are mandatory from December 1 to March 1. During this period, it is prohibited to operate a vehicle with summer tyres.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: New requirements since 2024!
Since October 1, 2024, new requirements are in effect in Latvia:
- Only tyres with the "mountain and snowflake" (3PMSF) marking are mandatory!
- Tyres with only M+S marking are NO LONGER ALLOWED during winter season
If your tyres only have the M+S designation without the 3PMSF symbol, they will not be considered suitable for the winter period!
When to switch to winter tyres?
It is recommended to change to winter tyres when:
- Average daily temperature drops below +7°C
- Night frosts begin
- First snow or frost is forecast
Practical tip: In Latvia, this is usually mid-October to early November.
When to switch to summer tyres?
Summer tyres can be installed:
- After March 1 (officially permitted)
- When average daily temperature consistently exceeds +7°C
- When no frost is forecast for the coming days
Practical tip: Most drivers change in mid-April to early May.
Studded tyres
Studded tyres are allowed from October 1 to May 1.
A vehicle cannot have both studded and non-studded tyres installed at the same time.
Fines for violations
Driving with non-compliant tyres during winter season may result in:
- Fine of 30 euros
- Insurance claim denial in case of accident
Tyre tread requirements
- Winter tyres: minimum tread depth – 4 mm
- Summer tyres: minimum tread depth – 1.6 mm
Recommendations
Do not purchase or use tyres older than 5-6 years – rubber loses its properties over time.
