Drivers across Washington are now required to remove studded tires or risk a hefty fine as the state’s annual deadline officially passes.
The Washington State Department of Transportation reminded motorists that studded tires must be off vehicles by Tuesday, March 31. Drivers who fail to comply could face a $137 citation issued by the Washington State Patrol, the agency said.
There are no extensions or out-of-state exemptions, even if late-season snow hits. Transportation officials said drivers should instead switch to approved traction tires, use non-studded winter tires, or carry chains when conditions require.
Studded tires—designed with small metal studs embedded in the tread—are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 through March 31 each year. While they can improve traction on icy roads, they are also known to cause significant damage to pavement over time.
“Studded tires are tough on roadways, so making the switch helps protect the roads we all use,” the department said in the post.
Debate Erupts Online
The reminder quickly sparked debate online, drawing more than 150 comments from drivers across the state. Some said they avoid studded tires altogether.
“I had never used studded tires since I stopped using them at age of 25 and just hate the feel and the noise of the tires,” one woman wrote in response to the post.
Others pointed to alternatives. “I am the exact same. Hate studs. I Firestone weathergrip tires. Aggressive tread winter rated all seasons. Best tire I have ever had,” one man replied.
Calls to ban studded tires altogether also surfaced. “Please ban studded tires,” one commenter wrote.
But transportation officials said they do not control that decision.
“WSDOT follows laws set by the Legislature and cannot change them as an agency,” the department responded. “We do recommend other winter tire options, like non-studded tires with more aggressive tread, which are effective in winter conditions and do not damage the roadway nearly as much as studded tires.”
Others pushed back, noting differences in driving conditions across the state.
“I love how all you useless west siders pipe up,” one commenter wrote. “How much snow does Port Townsend get? Not. Very. Much. Pipe down, bud, there’s an entire other half of the state that you’re conveniently not thinking about.”
State officials have long warned that studded tires contribute to road wear, increasing maintenance costs and creating grooves in pavement that can impact driving conditions.
You can learn more about Washington’s studded tire laws on the WSDOT website.
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