Meteorologists from the German Weather Service (DWD) are forecasting the first ground frost of the season for southern Germany this week.
In eastern Bavaria and the Rhön region, icy conditions could appear as early as Wednesday morning, with other parts of Bavaria likely to follow on Thursday night.
The chilly outlook is prompting many drivers to ask a familiar question: is it already time to change to winter tyres?
Safety comes first
Frosty mornings mean slippery roads. The ADAC, Germany’s largest automobile club, advises motorists not to wait until the last minute.
Driving with summer tyres in icy conditions not only increases the risk of accidents but can also result in fines and points on your licence.
No fixed date – but a clear legal duty
Germany does not have a blanket “winter tyre season” set by date. The law focuses on road conditions: if there is black ice, packed snow, slush or frost, vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres.
The often-cited rule of thumb – “O to O” (October to Easter) – is merely a guideline, not a legal requirement. In practice, if winter weather arrives early, drivers must switch sooner.
Motorcycles and agricultural vehicles are exempt from this rule.
Alpine symbol required
Since 2018, only tyres carrying the Alpine symbol (a mountain icon with a snowflake) are legally recognised as winter tyres.
From 1 October 2024, older M+S-labelled tyres no longer count as winter-compliant.
The Alpine symbol certifies that the tyre has passed a standardised braking test on snow. All-season tyres must also bear the symbol to be accepted as winter-ready.
Fines for non-compliance
Anyone caught driving with summer tyres on icy or snowy roads faces a €60 fine and one penalty point in Flensburg.
If another driver is obstructed, the fine rises to €80. In the event of an accident, the penalty can be €120 – and insurance companies may reduce coverage on grounds of gross negligence.
