Romania: Winter tire requirements and penalties

The Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs has reminded drivers that winter tires are mandatory whenever roads are covered with snow, ice, or frost. This obligation is triggered by road conditions rather than a specific calendar date, meaning drivers may face sanctions even outside the traditional winter months if weather conditions dictate.

Drivers failing to comply face fines ranging from 1,946 to 4,325 lei. Additionally, police have the authority to seize the vehicle's registration certificate. For those using all-season tires, they must feature the M+S marking to be legally compliant in these conditions.

Experts recommend that while all-season tires may suffice for urban driving, dedicated winter tires are preferred for mountain roads with frequent snow. Regarding tire maintenance, the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm, though specialists suggest keeping it above 4 mm for winter safety. Tires older than four to five years should be inspected, and most manufacturers recommend replacement after ten years regardless of appearance.