Yes, studded tires are permitted in Turkey but subject to stringent seasonal and regional restrictions enforced by local authorities and the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change.
Studded tires are legal in Turkey only during winter months (December 1–March 31) in designated high-altitude and northern provinces, including Erzurum, Kars, and Ardahan. Their use requires compliance with Turkish Standard TS 12844, which mandates stud specifications (e.g., maximum protrusion of 1.5 mm). Non-compliance risks fines up to ₺5,000 (approx. €150) and mandatory removal by traffic authorities.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Turkey
- Seasonal Restrictions: Mandatory use is limited to December 1–March 31 in 22 northeastern provinces, with exceptions for emergency vehicles.
- Stud Specifications: Must adhere to TS 12844, capping stud protrusion at 1.5 mm to minimize road damage.
- Local Enforcement: Provincial governors enforce compliance via traffic police and municipal checks, particularly in mountainous regions.
Recent 2026 amendments to the Highway Traffic Law (Law No. 2918) introduced stricter penalties for non-compliant studded tires, including vehicle impoundment in repeat offenses. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure also mandates annual inspections for commercial fleets operating in restricted zones. Drivers should verify provincial decrees, as some municipalities impose additional temporary bans during unseasonal weather shifts.