North Macedonia makes winter tyres or snow chains mandatory from 15 November

North Macedonia's mandatory winter equipment rules take effect on 15 November for all vehicles on the road. The rule applies until 15 March, regardless of whether there is snow on the roads.

Passenger cars with a maximum laden weight of up to 3,500 kilograms can use winter tyres on four wheels with at least four millimetres of tread, or summer tyres with the same tread depth plus snow chains for the drive wheels. Four-wheel-drive (4x4) vehicles need winter tyres on all wheels with at least six millimetres of tread. Studded tyres are banned.

Heavier vehicles over 3,500 kilograms need winter tyres with six millimetres of tread on the drive wheels, or summer tyres with four millimetres plus suitable chains or other equipment. Buses and trucks that cannot fit chains must carry winter tyres and a shovel. The Interior Ministry specifies the "MS", "M+S" and "M&S" markings. Drivers are advised to carry an ice scraper, snow brush, gloves and washer fluid.