March 31 All Studded Tires Must Be Removed from Cars in WA… Or Else

Washington State Department of Traffic sent out a warning to all drivers in Washington State that if you have studded tires still on your vehicles, you could get a nice fine from Washington State Patrol.

(see extension and waiver opportunities if they apply below)

Yakima had a pretty mild winter compared to other winters in the past, but for those who regularly have to travel over the passes, studded tires are a huge help for security when driving on the roads.

Studded tires are great for icy conditions but can cause havoc on the clear roads which is why Washington State only allows you to have studs on your tires for a few months out of the year.

And if you have studs on your tires right now, it's time to get them removed before facing a fine.

The Washington State Department of Traffic warns Washington drivers that studded tires must be removed by March 31 or face a probable fine.

The fine would be to the tune of $137. It won't necessarily break the bank, but it's enough of a warning to get your studded tired swapped out for the season and store them away until next time.

With spring time in Washington State, the studs aren't needed anymore so if you still have them on Washington State Patrol may pull you over.

Yes, it's true, there's always chance for more snow, even over the passes. Washington State Department of Traffic advise to carry chains just in case, but the studded tires still need to be removed.

Sometimes they issue out-of-state waivers or even extensions if it's a particularly nasty winter, but that's not the case for this 2026 season.