When to change tyres in Lithuania?

Tyre changing rules in Lithuania

According to Lithuanian law, winter tyres are mandatory from November 10 to March 31. During this period, it is prohibited to operate a vehicle with summer tyres.

Accepted tyre markings

Winter tyres must have at least one of these markings:

• 3PMSF (Alpine snowflake symbol) – recommended
• M+S (Mud and Snow) – accepted

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 Lithuania, this is usually mid-October to early November.

When to switch to summer tyres?

Summer tyres can be installed:

• From April 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 prohibited from April 10 to October 31.

When using studded tyres, an identification sign must be affixed at the rear of the vehicle: a white equilateral triangle with a red border and a tyre-stud symbol in the middle (Lithuanian Road Traffic Rules, Annex 4, point 5).

Winter speed limits

From November to March, passenger cars may drive at up to 110 km/h on motorways and expressways (April–October: 130 km/h on motorways, 120 km/h on expressways; Road Traffic Rules, point 131.1).

Fines and consequences

Driving with improper tyres during winter season may result in:

• Administrative fines

Tyre tread requirements

• 10 November – 31 March: minimum tread depth – 3 mm (4 mm recommended)
• Rest of the year: minimum tread depth – 1.6 mm