Tips · By Midas RDP · October 12, 2026

Winter Tires: the December 1 Deadline and the Right Time to Install

On December 1, every vehicle in Québec must be on winter tires, and stay on them until March 15. But the first snow often comes before that. Here’s how to pick the right time and what to check.

The right time: below 7 °C

According to CAA-Québec, all-season tires lose flexibility below 7 °C and grip less; winter tires stay flexible far lower. When mornings regularly drop below 7 °C, book your appointment. Avoid the last week of November: it’s the busiest time of the year at garages.

The law in brief

• All vehicles registered in Québec, rentals included, must have winter tires from December 1 to March 15.
• Every tire on the vehicle is covered, except the spare.
• A compliant winter tire shows the pictogram (a mountain and a snowflake) or has studs.
• Studded tires are allowed from October 15 to May 1.
• The fine is $200 to $300.

Will last year’s tires make it through winter?

The law requires at least 1.6 mm of tread, but the Québec government recommends 4.8 mm or more for winter. At every installation, we measure the wear and tell you straight.

At Midas Rivière-des-Prairies

• Installation, balancing and rotation, with or without rims, from 1 hour for 4 tires: installation and balancing
• New winter tires and seasonal manufacturer rebates: winter tires, rebates
• Your summer tires stored on site: tire storage
• 3D alignment if your vehicle pulls to one side: alignment

Book online or call 514-324-1940. We serve Rivière-des-Prairies, Pointe-aux-Trembles, Anjou, Montréal-Nord and Saint-Léonard.

FAQ

Can I put my winter tires on before December 1?

Yes, there’s no earliest date for non-studded winter tires. Studded tires are allowed from October 15.

When can I take them off?

After March 15. The government recommends waiting a few more weeks.

Are my all-season tires enough?

Only if they show the mountain and snowflake pictogram.

Sources : Government of Québec — Winter tires (FR) · CAA-Québec — Mandatory winter tires (FR)