Are Winter Tires Mandatory in Ontario?

No. Unlike Quebec, which requires winter tires by law from December 1 to March 15, Ontario has no legislation mandating winter tire use. Under the Highway Traffic Act, Ontario drivers are legally permitted to use all-season tires year-round. However, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation strongly recommends winter tires for all vehicles driven between October and April. In 2016, Ontario introduced the mandatory insurance discount for winter tire users instead of a legal requirement, choosing incentives over penalties.

Since January 1, 2016, all Ontario auto insurance companies are required by the Ontario government to offer a discount to drivers who install winter tires. According to the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA), the discount typically ranges from 2% to 5% off your annual premium. To qualify, your tires must bear the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF), which indicates they meet the industry standard for winter traction performance. Contact your insurance provider to confirm the exact discount and any documentation required.

When shopping for winter tires, look for two key markings. The three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF) indicates the tire has been tested and certified for severe winter conditions, including snow and ice. The M+S marking (mud and snow) indicates a tire designed for moderate winter conditions but not tested to the same rigorous standard. According to Transport Canada, only tires with the 3PMSF symbol are considered true winter tires. All-season tires with only an M+S marking do not provide the same level of grip in cold temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius.

The Ontario Ministry of Transportation recommends installing winter tires when temperatures consistently drop below 7 degrees Celsius, typically in late October or early November. Winter tires should remain on the vehicle until temperatures consistently stay above 7 degrees in spring, usually mid-April. Running winter tires in warm weather causes them to wear faster and actually reduces braking performance on dry, warm pavement. A common guideline is Thanksgiving to Tax Day (mid-October to mid-April).

For G2 and G road tests taken during winter months, having winter tires on your vehicle is a practical advantage but not a DriveTest requirement. Examiners do not check your tires before the test. However, driving with winter tires gives you better traction and shorter stopping distances, which can help you perform manoeuvres more confidently. If you are using a driving school vehicle for your test, confirm whether the school has installed winter tires. SafePass vehicles are equipped with winter tires throughout the winter season.