Winter’s Coming: Here’s When You Can Legally Install Studded Snow Tires in MA

Massachusetts residents know how rough our winters can be. It's not unusual for us to receive a foot of snow or more at certain points during the winter. With all the snow that accumulates throughout the Bay State, Massachusetts motorists must drive safely and be prepared for when the roads become hazardous.

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I remember over a decade ago when I was driving my father-in-law back from Baystate Health in Springfield after he had heart surgery. It was a blizzard that night and he wasn't able to stay at the hospital an extra night so he and a few other of my family members jumped in my car and I drove them back to the Berkshires.

Studded Snow Tires Paid Off for Me When I Was Driving Through Hazardous Conditions in Massachusetts Years Ago

I didn't show it on my face but I was facing some white knuckle driving that night as we drove through each town leading back to the Berkshires. It was whiteout conditions and I had a very difficult time seeing the road. We eventually made it back home safely and I was glad I had studded snow tires installed on my car. This story serves as a reminder that if you are a Massachusetts motorist, you'll want to get some installed on your vehicle.

When Can Studded Snow Tires Be Legally Installed in Massachusetts?

Granted, you aren't required by law to have studded snow tires on your car in Massachusetts but if you want them you can have them installed and drive around with them legally starting Nov.1 through Apr. 30 of the following year. If you are caught driving around with studded snow tires in Massachusetts outside of that time frame you could be slapped with a $50 fine.