Mandatory Dates for 2026
Winter tires must be installed by December 1, 2025 and can be removed after March 15, 2026. Driving without them during this period risks a fine of up to $300.
The Key Dates You Need
DEC 1
Installation Deadline
All Quebec vehicles must have winter tires installed by December 1st every year
MAR 15
Removal Date
You can switch back to summer tires after March 15th when roads are safer
4mm
Minimum Tread Depth
Your winter tires must have at least 4mm of tread — bald tires don't count
The Fines If You Don't Comply
Quebec Winter Tire Fines 2026
No winter tires installed
$200-$300
Tires with less than 4mm tread
$200-$300
Uber/rideshare drivers (commercial)
Up to $300
Points on your license
0 points
Pro tip for Uber drivers
If you drive for Uber or any rideshare service, you're considered a commercial driver in Quebec's eyes. Getting caught without winter tires could also put your Uber account at risk if you're involved in an accident. Don't risk it — install them early.
Best Budget Winter Tires for Canadian Drivers
01
Michelin X-Ice Snow — Best Overall Winter Tire in Canada
Passenger car · Excellent ice traction · Long-lasting · Quiet ride
Editor's Choice
Best for Montreal
The Michelin X-Ice Snow is consistently rated the best winter tire for Canadian conditions. It performs exceptionally on Montreal's icy streets and handles the constant freeze-thaw cycles better than any competitor. The tread lasts 2-3 seasons longer than cheaper brands — making it better value long-term.
For Uber drivers who put on 40,000+ km per year, the longevity of these tires makes them the smartest investment. Passengers also notice how smooth and quiet the ride is compared to cheaper winter tires.
Pros
Best ice and snow grip available
Extremely long-lasting tread
Quiet and comfortable ride
Excellent in Montreal's freeze-thaw cycles
Cons
Higher upfront cost than budget brands
May need to order in advance — sells out fast
02
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 — Best Value Winter Tire
Passenger car · Superior wet ice performance · Great value
Best Value
Top seller in Quebec
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is the top-selling winter tire in Quebec for good reason. Its multicell compound technology absorbs water on ice surfaces to dramatically improve braking — which matters most on Montreal's notorious black ice conditions.
Slightly more affordable than the Michelin while still delivering premium performance. If you want excellent winter tire performance without paying top dollar, the Blizzak WS90 is your tire.
Pros
Outstanding on wet ice — Montreal's biggest hazard
More affordable than Michelin
Available in most tire sizes
Cons
Tread wears slightly faster than Michelin
Slightly noisier on dry pavement
Winter Tire Checklist for Quebec Drivers
Before December 1st — Make Sure You Have
4 matching winter tires installed (all 4 wheels — not just 2)
Minimum 4mm tread depth on all tires
Tires marked with the mountain/snowflake symbol
Tire pressure checked (cold weather drops pressure)
Spare tire also winter-rated if you carry one
Uber/rideshare insurance updated for winter season
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all-season tires legal in Quebec winter?
No. All-season tires are NOT legal as winter tires in Quebec. The law specifically requires tires marked with the mountain and snowflake symbol (three-peak mountain snowflake). All-season tires do not have this marking and will result in a fine.
Can I install only 2 winter tires on the drive wheels?
No. Quebec law requires all 4 tires to be winter tires. Installing only 2 winter tires creates dangerous handling imbalances and will still result in a fine.
What if I'm from Ontario driving through Quebec?
The Quebec winter tire law applies to ALL vehicles on Quebec roads, including those registered in other provinces. If you drive through Quebec between December 1 and March 15 without winter tires, you can be fined.
How do I know if my tires qualify?
Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on the sidewall of your tire. This symbol means the tire has been tested and certified for severe winter conditions. If you don't see this symbol, your tires don't qualify.
When should I book my tire installation?
Book in October — tire shops in Montreal get extremely busy in November. Many shops are fully booked by mid-November. Booking early also means you get better tire selection and pricing before the rush.
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