The annual winter tire deadline for Quebec drivers has officially arrived. As of Monday, December 1, 2025, all passenger vehicles registered in the province must be equipped with approved winter tires to legally drive on public roads.
Deadline Day Arrives with Enforcement in Effect
The regulation, which is a cornerstone of Quebec's seasonal road safety strategy, mandates the use of winter tires from December 1 to March 15, inclusive. Police can now issue fines to any driver found using summer or all-season tires during this period. The law applies to all taxis and passenger vehicles registered in Quebec.
While the official date is fixed, authorities and safety experts have long advised motorists to make the switch well before the deadline to avoid last-minute rushes and to be prepared for early snowfall. The rule is designed to provide better traction, braking, and control in cold weather, on ice, and in snow.
Understanding the Rules and Potential Penalties
The requirement is clear: tires must bear the mountain-snowflake symbol or the M+S (mud and snow) designation. However, tires marked only M+S are considered acceptable until 2029, after which the mountain-snowflake symbol will be mandatory for compliance.
Failing to comply with the winter tire law can result in a fine. While the exact fine amount can vary, it typically ranges from $200 to $300, not including administrative costs. More importantly, driving on unsuitable tires in winter conditions significantly increases the risk of accidents, putting the driver, passengers, and other road users in danger.
A Proactive Measure for Safer Winter Roads
Quebec remains the only province in Canada with a blanket mandatory winter tire law for all passenger vehicles. The policy is widely supported by safety advocates as a proactive measure to reduce collisions during the challenging winter months.
For drivers who have not yet made the switch, the message is urgent: visit a certified garage or service center immediately to have winter tires installed. As seen in a recent photo from Bristol Auto Service in Quebec, garages are equipped to handle the seasonal changeover. Ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped is not just about avoiding a ticket—it's a critical step for safe winter driving for everyone on Quebec's roads.
