Mountain Law : What winter equipment for your vehicle ?
From November 1st to March 31st, equip your vehicle according to the Mountain Law: winter tires or chains/socks are mandatory in certain areas. Book your car already equipped for winter and set off in complete safety.
Mountain Law in a nutshell
Every winter, mountain roads require special attention. From November 1st to March 31st, in all or part of 48 French departments located in mountainous areas, drivers must equip their vehicle with anti-skid devices: winter or snow tires, metal chains, or snow socks.
Enacted in 2021, the Mountain Law aims to enhance road safety in areas exposed to harsh winter conditions.
In the event of non-compliance, drivers face a fine of 135 euros and the potential impoundment of their vehicle. You will find full details on the Service Public website.
The goal: ensure your safety and that of all road users, whatever the weather conditions.
Essential winter equipment
Before heading to the mountains, make sure your vehicle meets the Mountain Law requirements:
- 3PMSF winter tires: your car must be fitted with approved tires on all four wheels, or studded tires. Older tires marked M+S are no longer sufficient since November 1, 2024.
- Other snow tires: they can still be used, but in this case, you must also have snow chains or socks to drive legally from November 1 to March 31 in the designated areas.
- Snow chains or socks: if your vehicle does not have 3PMSF tires, you must keep anti-skid devices in the trunk, ready to be fitted in case of snow or ice. Rent your snow chains with Europcar! No need to invest in equipment you rarely use! We offer snow chain or sock rentals tailored to your vehicle, available at most of our branch locations near areas covered by the regulation.
Winter equipment offered by Europcar
Europcar offers the following optional equipment at branch locations in Mountain Law zones:
- Snow socks
- Winter tires
- Metal chains Available equipment varies by branch and availability. Depending on the branch, you can book this equipment when making your reservation, after your reservation in your customer account, or upon picking up your vehicle.
Which departments are affected by the Mountain Law?
The Mountain Law applies to departments located around France's major mountain ranges: the Alps, Vosges, Jura, Massif Central, and Pyrenees. Here are the areas where you will need to equip your vehicle. The exact list of municipalities concerned is determined by local prefectoral decree.
A few frequently asked questions about Mountain Law requirements
Which equipment is mandatory? Vehicles must be equipped with one of the following two options:
- 4 winter tires or 4 all-season tires certified 3PMSF,
- Snow chains or socks available in the trunk (at least 2).
How do I know if my area is affected?
Specific road signs indicate entry into and exit from the Mountain Law zone:
- Sign B58: entry into the mandatory equipment zone,
- Sign B59: exit from the zone.
You can also check on the department prefecture's website or on service-public.fr here
Does the Mountain Law apply only when it snows?
No, it applies continuously throughout the entire winter period, whether the road surface is covered in snow or not. It is a preventive measure.
What does the "3PMSF" logo on tires mean?
It is a mountain + snowflake symbol ("Three Peak Mountain Snowflake"). It guarantees that the tire meets European standards for driving on snow. This logo is mandatory to be classified as a winter tire.
Heading to the mountains? Discover our articles and top deals for a stress-free winter.
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