Studded Tire Deadline Pushed Back One Week

State officials have extended the studded tire deadline one week for the second time this year. Drivers must now remove their studded tires by the end of the day Thursday, April 14, a Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) news release said today.

The WSDOT extended the studded tire deadline because forecasts call for continued winter driving conditions across the mountain passes and higher-elevation areas in eastern Washington. Drivers in lower elevations who have no plans to travel across the passes are asked to remove their studded tires before April 14. 

Studded tires are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 – March 31, unless the deadline is extended. WSDOT officials remain concerned about safety risks and roadway damage associated with studded tires. Research on studded tires consistently shows that vehicles equipped with studded tires require longer stopping distance on wet or dry pavement. 

Crews will continue clearing the passes, although those traveling into the higher elevations should always prepare for winter driving conditions. This means having information on current weather and roadway conditions, traction tires, and chains. 

Drivers are advised to work with local tire dealers to determine the best tires for their car and driving conditions, including traction tires legal and safe for year-round use.