Talvirenkaat (Winter Tires)
Winter tires required on cars in Finland from November 1 to March 31 when weather or road conditions call for them.
Winter tires that Finnish law requires on cars in winter conditions.
What it means
Talvirenkaat are winter tires specifically designed for cold weather, snow, and ice. Finnish law requires cars and vans to use winter tires from November 1 through March 31 when weather or road conditions call for them. Since December 1, 2024, a non-studded tire only counts as a winter tire if it carries the 3PMSF marking (a three-peak mountain with a snowflake); the M+S marking alone is no longer enough. You can choose between studded tires (nastarenkaat) and non-studded friction tires (kitkarenkaat). Studded tires have metal pins that grip ice effectively and are the most popular choice in Finland. Non-studded winter tires use special rubber compounds and tread patterns for winter grip. Summer tires are not allowed during this period when conditions are wintry, and in practice most of Finland has winter conditions for much of it.
Why it matters for internationals
If you drive in Finland, winter tires are not optional - they are the law. Driving on summer tires in winter conditions is dangerous and illegal, resulting in fines and potential liability in accidents. Many internationals coming from warmer climates are unfamiliar with winter driving and tire changing. Tire hotels (rengashotelli) at car dealerships and tire shops offer seasonal storage and changing services, which is convenient if you lack space or tools.
Key details
- Mandatory period: November 1 through March 31 when weather or road conditions require; you can use winter tires outside this period too
- Studded tires: allowed November 1 through March 31, and also outside that period when weather or road conditions require them
- 3PMSF marking: required on non-studded winter tires since December 1, 2024; tires marked only M+S no longer qualify
- Tread depth: Minimum 3mm tread depth required for winter tires
- Studded vs. friction: Studded tires excel on ice; friction tires are quieter and better on dry cold roads
- Cost: A set of four winter tires costs approximately 200-600 euros depending on size and brand
- Tire hotel: Seasonal storage and swap services typically cost 30-80 euros per season
Our guide to driving in Finland covers winter tyre rules along with licences, speed limits and insurance.
Related terms
- Katsastus: vehicle inspection that checks tire condition
- Joukkoliikenne: public transport, an alternative to driving