make or break your journey. While winter tires in Norway are not technically mandatory, the law requires your tires to match the road conditions.
In winter, that almost always means snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Without the right tires, you risk fines, accidents, or worse, getting stuck in the middle of nowhere.
In this guide, we'll cover Norway's winter tire laws, rental campervan requirements, studded vs. non-studded tires, and key winter driving tips to keep you safe on the road.
Norwegian Winter Tire Laws Explained
If you're driving in Norway during winter, then you need to know the rules. Winter tires in Norway are not always legally required for every vehicle, but road conditions can make them essential. And remember, always check road updates before heading out. If you are still looking for the right vehicle, make sure to rent a campervan in Norway that is fully winter-ready. Taking the time to prepare will help you stay safe, avoid fines, and enjoy Norway's stunning winter landscapes without unnecessary stress. Safe travels!
Here is how the law works:
All vehicles, including foreign ones, must be equipped to handle the road conditions. If roads are icy or snowy, you must have tires that provide sufficient grip.
Foreign vehicles are not fined for lacking winter tires, but skipping them can make driving dangerous.
Rental cars in Norway typically come with the right tires for the season, but always confirm before driving off.
While some vehicles may not legally require winter tires, the law states that all cars must be safe for the current road conditions. This means winter tires are effectively required when driving in Norway's winter months.
What Tread Depth Is Required and When?
Tread depth matters more than you might think, especially on Norway's icy roads. The law sets different requirements based on your vehicle's weight, so here is what you need to know.
Vehicles Under 3.5 Tons
Minimum tread depth: 3 mm during the winter season.
Dates:
Most of Norway: 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday.
Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark: October 16 to April 30.
Outside winter: The minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm.
Heavy Vehicles (Over 3.5 Tons)
Minimum tread depth: 5 mm during the winter season.
Dates:
Most of Norway: 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday.
Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark: October 16 to April 30.
Outside winter: The minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm.
Campervans and Motorhomes
For campervans and larger motorhomes, the rules depend on weight:
Between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg: 3 mm tread depth during the winter season.
Seasonal dates are the same as for other vehicles in each region.
Outside winter: The minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm.
When Can You Use Studded Tires in Norway?
If you are planning to drive with studded tires in Norway, there are specific rules you need to follow. The allowed usage periods depend on the region, but there are also extra considerations for pollution fees in major cities.
Where and When Are Studded Tires Allowed?
Most of Norway: Allowed from 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter Monday
Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark (Northern Norway): Allowed from 16 October to 30 April.
Outside these dates: You can use studded tires only if road conditions require them.
Rules for Using Studded Tires
Studded tires must be fitted on all wheels of the vehicle.
If road conditions change and studded tires are no longer needed, you are expected to switch to regular winter tires.
Fines and Penalties for Not Using Proper Winter Tires
Skipping proper winter tires in Norway is not just risky; it can also be expensive. If a driver is caught without the right tires or snow chains, the fines can add up quickly.
Fines for Vehicles Without Proper Winter Tires
Vehicles under 7.5 tons: NOK 1,000 (€90) per tire
Vehicles over 7.5 tons: NOK 2,000 (€180) per tire
Fines for Not Carrying Snow Chains
Vehicles under 7.5 tons: NOK 750 (€67)
Vehicles over 7.5 tons: NOK 1,200 (€107)
Heavy vehicles with trailers: NOK 1,500 (€134)
Authorities take winter driving safety seriously, so every driver is expected to equip their vehicle properly. If you are renting a car or campervan, double-check that it comes with the right tires and chains to avoid unnecessary fines and stay safe on Norway's winter roads.
Do Rental Campervans in Norway Have Winter Tires?
If you are renting a campervan in Norway during winter, you are probably wondering if it comes with snow tires. The good news is that most rental companies equip their vehicles with winter tires from November to March or April, as required by law. But there are still a few things you should check before booking.
What to Confirm Before Renting
Are snow tires included in the rental price? Some companies charge extra.
What are the exact dates winter tires are provided? Policies can vary.
What is the tread depth and condition of the tires? You want them to be in top shape.
Are Snow Chains Included?
Snow chains are not always part of standard rentals, but you may be able to request them.
Some companies offer them for free, while others charge a small daily fee.
If you plan to drive in mountainous areas or expect heavy snowfall, it is best to have chains with you.
Extra Fees for Winter-Ready Campervans
Some rental companies include winterization in the standard rate, while others charge extra for:
Snow tires (if not already included)
Engine block heaters to keep the vehicle from freezing
Upgraded heating systems for better comfort
Extra insulation to stay warm in extreme cold
These extra costs can range from zero to several hundred NOK per day, depending on the company and level of winter prep. Always ask what is included in the "winter-ready" package so you are not caught off guard by unexpected fees.
Winter Tires vs. Studded Winter Tires
Choosing the right tires for winter driving in Norway can make a huge difference in safety and comfort. Both winter tires and studded winter tires have their pros and cons, so here is what you need to know.
Winter Tires (Non-Studded)
✔️ Better performance on snow and wet roads
✔️ Quieter and less road damage
✔️ Legal everywhere with no restrictions
❌ Less effective on ice
Studded Winter Tires
✔️ Superior traction on ice, making them great for extreme conditions
✔️ Better grip on frozen roads
❌ Noisier and can damage roads
❌ Restricted in some areas, with extra fees in major cities
❌ Less effective on clear, dry roads
Which Is Better for Tourists?
If you are renting a car or campervan, non-studded winter tires are usually the better choice:
More versatile across different winter conditions
No legal restrictions or extra fees in certain cities
Better performance on cleared roads and in urban areas
Adequate for most winter driving situations
When Should You Use Snow Chains?
If you are driving in Norway during winter, snow chains might not always be required, but in some situations, they are a must-have for safety. The last thing you want is to be stuck on an icy road with no grip.
When Are Snow Chains Required?
For vehicles over 3.5 tons, from 1 November to the first Sunday after Easter (16 October to 30 April in northern Norway).
On snowy or icy roads, especially in steep or mountainous areas.
When road signs indicate, chains are mandatory.
How to Fit Snow Chains
Not sure how to put them on? It is easier than it looks:
Lay the chains flat on the ground behind the tire.
Drape them over the tire, making sure they are centered.
Connect the fasteners at the front of the tire.
Drive forward a little to help settle the chains.
Tighten and adjust as needed to make sure they are secure.
If you are renting a campervan, check if snow chains are included and practice fitting them before you actually need them. It is much easier to figure it out in a parking lot than on a freezing roadside in the middle of a snowstorm.
Tips for Driving in Winter in Norway
Winter driving in Norway is no joke, and surface conditions make it necessary to adjust your speed and technique to stay safe. Snow, ice, and unpredictable weather can turn a simple drive into a challenge, so here is how to handle it.
Handling Icy Roads
Use winter tires with at least 3 mm tread depth for better grip.
Drive slowly and smoothly, avoiding sharp turns or sudden acceleration.
Keep a safe following distance of at least three seconds to allow more reaction time.
Test the road surface conditions by braking gently at low speeds to check traction.
Speed and Braking
Reduce speed, especially on curves and hills where ice can catch you off guard.
Brake gently and early, never in the middle of a curve.
Use low gears when going downhill to avoid skidding.
If your vehicle has ABS, apply steady pressure. If not, pump the brakes gently to prevent locking up.
During a Snowstorm
Slow down to below 30 mph (48 km/h) to maintain control.
Use dipped headlights for better visibility.
Increase the following distance to ten times the normal gap for extra stopping time.
If visibility is too poor to continue, find a safe place to stop and wait it out.
Using Winter Tires in Norway with Your Rental Campervan
Driving a campervan in winter requires extra precautions. Winter tires in Norway are essential, but you should also check if your rental includes snow chains for icy conditions. Plan your routes carefully, avoiding steep mountain passes or areas with extreme weather.