Tips · By Midas SC · October 12, 2026

Winter Tires in Québec: the December 1 Deadline and When to Install

In Québec, winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 15. But the law sets a deadline, not the best time: the first snow often comes earlier. Here’s what you need to know to be ready in time.

What the law says

• All vehicles registered in Québec, rentals included, must have winter tires from December 1 to March 15.
• Every tire on the vehicle is covered, except the spare.
• A compliant winter tire shows the pictogram (a mountain and a snowflake) or has studs.
• Studded tires are allowed from October 15 to May 1.
• The fine is $200 to $300.

When to install them?

Below 7 °C, all-season tires lose flexibility and grip, according to CAA-Québec. Winter tires stay flexible well below that. Once mornings regularly drop below 7 °C, it’s time. Don’t wait for the last week of November: it’s the busiest time of the year at garages.

Check the tread before putting them back on

The legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but the Québec government recommends at least 4.8 mm of tread in winter. We measure your tires at every installation and tell you whether they’ll last the winter.

At Midas Saint-Constant

• Winter tire installation, with or without rims, from 1 hour for 4 tires: installation and balancing
• Winter tire sales and seasonal manufacturer rebates: winter tires, rebates
• On-site storage for your summer tires: tire storage

Book online or call 450-635-2990. We serve Saint-Constant, Sainte-Catherine, Delson, Candiac and La Prairie.

FAQ

Can I put my winter tires on before December 1?

Yes, there’s no earliest date for non-studded winter tires. Studded tires are allowed from October 15.

When can I take them off?

After March 15. The government recommends waiting a few more weeks.

Are my all-season tires enough?

Only if they show the mountain and snowflake pictogram.

Sources : Government of Québec — Winter tires (FR) · CAA-Québec — Mandatory winter tires (FR)