Don’t get fined! Today is your last chance to remove studded tires in WA

It’s time to remove the studs from your tires, and this is not an April Fools’ joke!

Monday, March 31, is the last day you can drive with studded tires in Washington.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) says studded tires damage pavement, costing taxpayers additional road repair and maintenance costs.

According to WSDOT Maintenance Operations Manager James Morin, studded tires lead to up to $29 million in damages for state-owned roads in Washington each winter, with additional costs to city and county roads.

For future winters, WSDOT is urging drivers to consider other traction options, such as non-studded, winter-tread tires. These are different from all-season tires, and do not cause damage to roadways.

No extensions granted, avoid fines

For those who still need to remove the studs from their tires, it is recommended to plan ahead. Tire shops are expected to have long lines and wait times.  Many tire shop managers highly suggest getting an appointment in advance to reduce the wait time.

Starting at midnight on Tuesday, April 1, all drivers with studded tires can face a fine of $137. This includes visitors with out-of-state tags.

No extension to this law is expected to be planned for this year. Crews will continue to monitor mountain passes, roads, and weather forecasts in order to quickly clear any late-season snow or ice.

Before hitting the road, be sure to check road conditions so ‘you know before you go’ by visiting the WSDOT website or app.

Ted Buehner is the KIRO Newsradio meteorologist. Follow him on X and Bluesky.