Yes, studded tires are legal in Argentina but subject to stringent provincial and municipal restrictions, primarily in urban centers like Buenos Aires and Córdoba. National traffic regulations (Law 24.449) delegate authority to local jurisdictions, which often prohibit studded tires during warmer months to mitigate road damage. Recent 2026 compliance shifts in Buenos Aires Province now require explicit municipal permits for studded tire use, aligning with environmental protection decrees targeting particulate emissions.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Argentina
- Provincial Permits Required: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Santa Fe mandate prior authorization from local traffic authorities (e.g., Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial affiliates) for studded tire use, typically limited to winter months (June–August).
- Seasonal Restrictions: Most jurisdictions enforce bans from September 1 to May 31, with exceptions for emergency vehicles or rural areas where studded tires are permitted year-round.
- Technical Standards: Studded tires must comply with IRAM (Instituto Argentino de Normalización) standards, including stud protrusion limits (≤1.5mm) and tread depth minimums (4mm) to reduce road wear and noise pollution.
Non-compliance risks fines up to ARS 50,000 (as per Decreto 779/1995) and mandatory tire replacement at the owner’s expense. Transport companies operating in cross-border routes (e.g., Chile or Uruguay) must verify reciprocal agreements, as some neighboring countries impose reciprocal bans. Consult local Dirección de Tránsito offices for jurisdiction-specific updates, as regulations evolve with environmental policies.