• Many states require tire chains in snowy conditions.Fallen snow and the giant snow flake image by CRUZR from Fotolia.com
  
  As the name implies, tire chains are chains that are put on tires, usually to help the vehicle move through snow or other wintry conditions. The rules and regulations for tire chains vary from state to state, but generally all state laws make the use of chains permissible in bad weather such as snow, ice or heavy rain.
  
  

Permissible

• The majority of states make the use of tire chains permissible in weather conditions that can cause a vehicle to skid or slide or during certain times of the year, such as during winter months. For example, in Connecticut, tire chains are permitted from November 15 to April 30, but in Arizona, they are permitted any time that tire chains would make driving in weather conditions safer. For specific laws in your state, follow the Tire Chains Required link in the References area.
  
  

Required

• California, Colorado, Washington and Nevada require vehicles to drive with tire chains in certain areas. These areas are clearly marketed with signs and are often either mountainous or unpaved. In New York and Wyoming, tire chains are required any time the state or superintendent has declared a snow emergency. However, in Oregon, tire chains are required during heavy snowfall. Massachusetts and Washington also require certain drivers to carry tire chains at all times. . For specific laws in your state, follow the Tire Chains Required link in the References area.
  
  

No Laws

• Washington, D.C. plus the following states do not have tire chain laws: Florida, Maine, Missouri, New Hampshire, Ohio and Vermont.