Mandatory winter equipment in vehicles from 15 November
Requirement runs from 15 November to 15 March and defines tread depths, tyre markings and chain options for different vehicle types.
From 15 November a legal requirement for mandatory winter equipment in vehicles begins and will remain in force until 15 March next year. The Ministry of Interior reminded drivers that all vehicles participating in public traffic must carry the prescribed gear during that period.
Who must fit what and how much it can cost
Checking prices in Macedonian shops shows that a set of four winter tyres can cost from about 11,500 to more than 30,000 denars, depending on brand and size; mounting and balancing are extra charges that buyers must add to the final bill.
For passenger cars with a maximum mass up to 3,500 kilograms the rules offer two alternatives: fit winter tyres on all four wheels with a minimum tread depth of four millimetres, or keep summer tyres with at least four millimetres of tread depth and carry appropriate snow chains for the drive wheels.
Vehicles with all-wheel drive are subject to special provisions. Among them is a higher minimum tread depth of six millimetres when winter tyres are used.
The Ministry stated that tyres are considered winter if they bear the prescribed markings: M+S, MS or the symbol of a snowflake in a mountain with three peaks.
Drivers who have not yet replaced worn tyres or who do not carry the necessary chains should plan the purchase and installation before 15 November to avoid fines and ensure safe travel during the winter period.
Photo: press material from the event
