New winter tyre labelling rules in Germany

This article is dated as shown. Laws, fees and prices have changed since then. Check the figures before you rely on them.

For an ordinary passenger car in Germany, in the winter road conditions defined by the StVO, you need tyres that comply with § 36(4) StVZO and carry the Alpine symbol. The M+S marking alone is not enough. This requirement is tied to the conditions on the road, not to the idea that every tyre must be a winter tyre all year round.

The changes: meaning and motives

The Alpine symbol shows that a tyre meets the established requirements for winter conditions. It is not a universal confirmation of environmental friendliness or of safety in any weather.

As a reminder, the “Mud & Snow” marking was used previously, and it also appeared on all-season tyres.

When choosing tyres, check separately their suitability for winter conditions, the sizes and the performance characteristics.

• noise level;
• fuel efficiency ratings;
• wet grip.

Winter labelling does not replace checking the condition of the tyres and choosing your speed to suit the road situation. Grip depends on conditions, wear and other factors.

When will the tyres have to be replaced?

The transition period described in the 2018 article has already ended. When choosing tyres for a journey today, you need to follow the requirements currently in force.

The transition period mentioned ended on 30.09.2024. For an ordinary passenger car in winter road conditions, StVO § 2(3a) and the requirements of StVZO § 36(4) apply; the former acceptance of the M+S marking alone should no longer be relied on.

Ordering cars with good tyres

We understand better than anyone that the quality of the tyres is responsible for safe and comfortable driving. A car's wheels must be in excellent condition. For this we recommend fitting tyres with a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm, and for snow-covered roads no less than 4 mm.

When preparing to collect your car, check which tyres are fitted and whether they suit the season and the route. Choosing winter or all-season tyres is not a guarantee of safe driving in all conditions.