SWITCHING TYRES SEASONALLY IN ITALY: Is it necessary to change your tires for summer in Italy?
Italy's Tyre Legality: All You Need to Knowlet's give this a shot
Are you baffled by Italy's tyre swapping mandate? Don't sweat it; we've got you covered. Here's a breakdown of everything you need to know about the tyre game in Italy.
Significant Update on Italian Road Regulations
Back in 2014, a ban on winter tyres during summer months was imposed in Italy - specifically, from May 15th onwards, although the switch should begin by April 15th.
Breaching this rule can be costly, potentially resulting in a hefty fine of up to €1,731, along with the compulsory revisione (similar to a UK MOT test or US vehicle inspection).
Yet, the regulation frequently causes confusion, as it doesn't apply to everyone.
Let's shed light on the who, what, and hows of the summer tyre requirement in Italy.
Who's Required to Swap 'Em Out?
Italian tyre regulations can be a labyrinth, but fear not; here's a simplified summary of the key points.
The legal obligation to change to summer tyres by May 15th applies only to vehicles whose winter tyres (usually marked as 'M+S' or with a snowflake inside a three-peak mountain range) have a speed rating lower than the tyre speed rating indicated on their registration certificate (carta di circolazione).
If the winter tyres on your car have a speed rating higher than or equal to the speed rating shown in the car's registration certificate, you won't have to make the switch.
Moreover, the summer tyre rule doesn't apply to vehicles fitted with all-season tyres (pneumatici quattro stagioni).
Where's My Relevant Speed Rating?
A tyre speed rating indicates the maximum speed a tyre can handle without compromising performance, expressed as an alphabet letter, ranging from A (lowest) to Y (highest). You can find the tyre speed ratings and their corresponding letters here.
The tyre speed rating can usually be found on the sidewall, immediately following the load rating (a two- or three-digit number expressing the maximum weight a tyre can carry). So, for instance, a tyre carrying the letter 'N' can manage speeds up to 140 km/h (87 mph).
As for the car registration certificate, the tyre speed rating can generally be found below the PNEUMATICI (tyres) heading in the bottom-left quadrant of the registration certificate. The rating is expressed as a letter, following the load rating.
Examples to Make It Tangible
Let's look at a couple of scenarios for better understanding.
If the winter tyres on your car have a Q rating (160 km/h) and your registration certificate indicates an S rating (180 km/h) under normal conditions, you'll be legally required to switch to summer tyres.
However, if the winter tyres on your car have a T rating (190 km/h) and your registration certificate specifies an S rating (180 km/h), you won't have to switch to summer tyres.
Why Opt for Summer Tyres, Even If Not Mandatory?
Though not mandatory in every case, it's advisable to switch to summer tyres during warmer months.
With temperatures above 7°C, summer tyres provide better grip, superior braking, and better fuel efficiency compared to winter tyres.
Cost of Making the Switch
If you already possess a set of summer tyres, the fitting cost will range from €30 to €70. However, if you need to purchase a new set, a mid-range summer tyre set will likely set you back around €300 (around €70-75 per tyre).
Motorcycle Rules
Motorcycles are exempt from winter tyre regulations, meaning riders are not legally required to use winter tyres during colder seasons. But, if you equipped your motorcycle with winter tyres last year, then you'll have to replace them with summer ones unless the speed rating condition for cars applies.
Note that Italian Highway Code grants regions and individual provinces the authority to modify national regulations based on local climate and weather conditions. As a result, the summer tyre deadline may vary across the country. Check this year's dates for your local comune with your local Motorizzazione Civile office.
Seeking Professional Advice
Our website is unable to offer advice on individual cases. For more information, contact your local Motorizzazione Civile office or consult a professional.
Stay informed and stay safe on Italian roads!
- The European Union (EU) has regulations that affect various industries, such as finance, transportation, and automotive, which may impact your travel visa requirements when visiting Italy.
- In addition to understanding Italy's tyre regulations, it's essential to be aware of the visa requirements for Italian entry, ensuring a smooth journey when traveling to Italy.
- Contrary to the misconception, not all vehicles in Italy are required to switch to summer tyres by May 15th. The obligation applies only to those with winter tyres that have a speed rating lower than the one indicated on their registration certificate.
- Driving a motorcycle in Italy is not subject to the winter tyre regulations; however, the speed rating condition for cars may still apply.
- Summer tyres offer better performance during warmer months, making them the ideal choice for superior grip, braking, and fuel efficiency. But if you're unsure about the specifics of your vehicle and its tyre speed ratings, it's best to seek advice from a professional or your local Motorizzazione Civile office.
