France mandates winter driving equipment in mountain zones

From November 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, motorists traveling through designated mountain zones in France must carry specific winter equipment. The regulations apply to various regions, including the Ain department and parts of Occitanie.

In the Ain department, the mandate covers the eastern half of the region. Drivers must either carry snow chains or textile covers (socks) for at least two driving wheels or be equipped with four winter tires marked with the ‘3PMSF’ (3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake) symbol. For heavy goods vehicles and buses, specific requirements apply regarding anti-slip devices or winter tires on steering and driving wheels.

In the Occitanie region, the obligation is localized to specific communes identified by prefects rather than entire departments. Affected areas include 46 communes in Ariège, 32 in Aude, 46 in Haute-Garonne, and 55 in Hautes-Pyrénées, covering various access points to mountain stations and high-altitude sectors.