This also applies to all motor carriers that carry out transport activities on the roads of Germany or transit through this country. All of them must comply with the new marking of winter tires and the general requirements for vehicles during the winter period.
In particular, since January 1, 2018, a marking of winter tires with the alpine symbol "3 Peak Mountain SnowFlake" (three mountain peaks and a snowflake). From October 1, 2024, winter tires that are only marked with the M+S symbol can no longer be used for winter road conditions.
For all all-season tires, the minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Trucks over 3.5 tons, as well as city buses with more than 8 passenger seats (excluding the driver's seat) (categories M2 and M3) must be equipped with winter tires:
on permanent drive axes,
on the front steering axles.
Winter tires are not mandatory for trailer/semi-trailer axles, nor is there a direct article in the law regarding the mandatory presence of anti-skid chains on the vehicle.
However, on snowy roads, they must be installed in accordance with the road sign (No. 268). No specific time frame was given, but "if circumstances warrant, the vehicle should be equipped with snow chains, shovel, pick, tow bar and tow rope.
Chains must be installed on the guide bridge(s). The maximum speed with installed anti-skid chains is 50 km/h.
Sanction for non-compliance with winter tire legislation:
About the driver:
60 euros plus 1 penalty point in the German register ATZ (FAER* - Flensburg point system),
80 euros plus 1 FAER penalty point in case of obstructing other road users,
100 euros plus 1 FAER penalty point in case of increased danger to other road users,
€120 plus 1 FAER penalty point in case of accident.
For the car owner:
€75 plus 1 FAER penalty point
Penalties for neglecting anti-skid chains:
10 euros for incorrect use of anti-skid chains.
20 euros for driving without anti-skid chains if their use is provided by sign #268.