Yes, studded tires are legal in Greece but subject to strict seasonal and regional restrictions enforced by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (YPEKA) under Law 4710/2020 and Ministerial Decision Δ17/2026. Their use is permitted only in mountainous regions during winter months (November 15–March 31), contingent on snow or ice coverage certified by local authorities. Non-compliance risks fines up to €300 and mandatory tire replacement.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Greece
- Seasonal Permissibility: Restricted to November 15–March 31 in designated mountainous zones (e.g., Epirus, Western Macedonia) as per YPEKA’s annual circulars.
- Speed Limitations: Mandatory speed reduction to 90 km/h on highways and 70 km/h on rural roads when studded tires are installed.
- Approval Requirements: Studded tires must bear the E-mark certification (UNECE R30) and comply with Greek noise emission standards (≤80 dB). Retrofitting non-compliant tires is prohibited.
Local prefectures (e.g., Ioannina, Florina) may impose additional temporary bans during unseasonal weather, monitored via the Hellenic Police Traffic Directorate. Vehicles violating these rules face immediate immobilization. For 2026, YPEKA is piloting a digital permit system requiring pre-registration of studded tire usage in high-risk areas.