Winter safety requirements

Fast Facts:

  • If you’re in a place where snow and ice are common during the winter, please outfit your car with tires (or chains) suited for that weather.
  • Guests may reject or return a car they don’t feel comfortable or safe in, so we strongly suggest keeping your car weather-ready for all seasons. 

United States

We expect hosts to know and follow the applicable vehicle safety laws for the state in which their car is listed, including laws regarding the use of snow tires, studded tires, and chains.  

Canada

In certain regions of Canada, you must have winter-certified tires. If you car is listed in Canada, YOU MUST ensure it’s equipped for the winter months in accordance with the regulations of the province in which it’s registered. Vehicles in the province of Quebec are legally required to be outfitted with winter tires from December 15 to March 15, as noted by the Société de l'assurance automobile.

Please check the specific requirements for your province or region and plan to comply with all laws and regulations for vehicle safety, condition, and operation there. If you fail to comply, we may cancel trips booked in your vehicle. You’ll receive no earnings and may be removed from Turo. 

Germany

German federal law requires that all motor vehicles have clearly marked winter or all-season tires for icy, snowy, and slushy road conditions. While all-weather tires are acceptable, winter tires made for mud and snow (displaying a snowflake or “M+S” logo) and those made to handle severe winter conditions (displaying a “three mountain” logo) are better for winter driving conditions. The use of studded snow tires is prohibited.

Although the law cites no specific dates for the use of winter tires, the well-known guideline of “from October to Easter” is a useful one to follow, although actual weather conditions should be the determining factor in your use of winter tires.

Please be sure to fully educate yourself about German laws regarding tire safety. You’re expected to comply with all laws and regulations for vehicle safety, condition, and operation in your region. If you’re listing your car in Germany, YOU MUST ensure it is equipped for the winter months in accordance with federal regulations. If you fail to comply, we may cancel trips booked in your vehicle. You’ll receive no earnings and may be removed from Turo.

United Kingdom

There are no specific legal requirements about the use of winter tyres in the UK. You can find a list of tyre regulations for trucks and buses based on region here. Be sure to check the laws in your area and maintain a safe vehicle for your guests.

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