What do European regulations say about winter tyres?
European regulations on winter tyres indicate that “tyres must be marked M+S if they are snow tyres”.
No performance tests are required to display the M+S marking: this is merely a self-certification from the manufacturer. The marking does not imply any sort of objective performance guarantee.
Winter tyres that display the 3PMSF marking, however, must have passed a regulated test guaranteeing a certain level of performance in wintery conditions.
In Europe, the rules regarding the usage of certified winter tyres (M+S and/or 3PMSF)* vary from one country to another. Depending on the country, winter tyres may be required during a certain part of the year or in certain weather/driving conditions. In addition, some countries have legislation requiring a minimum tyre tread depth in wintertime.
See below for regulations by country.