Winter travel information and roadway restrictions

• How do I get ready for winter travel?
• Where can I find out what the roads and traffic are like today?
• Does WSDOT put information out via social media?
• Why and where do you do avalanche control?
• Can you explain "Chains Required"?
• What are the requirements for four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles?

Tires

• What is a traction tire?
• When is it legal to use studded tires in Washington?
• I live in a state that allows studded tire use beyond Washington’s dates. Since I’m not a resident, can I legally drive in Washington with studded tires, as long as I am complying with my state’s studded tire regulations and laws?
• Are there any alternatives to studded tires?

Chains

• Do I need to carry chains when traveling through the pass?
• What type of chains and other traction devices are legal in Washington?
• I have four-wheel/all wheel drive. Do I need chains?
• I have studded tires. Do I also need chains?
• What are the chain requirements on non-commercial vehicles towing a trailer such as an RV, horse trailer, etc.?
• My vehicle cannot accommodate tire chains. Can I drive when chains are required? The Washington State Patrol has a list of approved alternate traction devices that can be found at www.wsp.wa.gov/traveler/traction.htm.
• Can I use chains when driving onto a state ferry?
• Are there still people who install chains on the mountain passes?

Commercial/Oversized Vehicles

• What is considered an oversized vehicle?
• I drive a commercial vehicle. How do I know which tires to chain when chains are required?

How do I get more information?
For more information, contact WSDOT Winter Maintenance.