Turkey’s 2026–27 winter tire requirement is scheduled to begin on November 15, 2026, and end on April 15, 2027. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure says the five-month period applies to commercial vehicles carrying passengers or goods on intercity roads. Searches for “kış lastiği” (winter tires) have risen in Türkiye as the colder season approaches.
Which vehicles must use winter tires?
The nationwide intercity rule covers commercial passenger and freight vehicles. The ministry lists trucks, tractors, tankers and buses, as well as vans, minibuses and automobiles when they are being used for covered commercial transport. The rules specify that the tires on the relevant wheels—or all tires for some vehicle classes—must meet the winter tire requirement.
Private car drivers are advised by the ministry to fit winter tires, but the national notice does not describe the general rule as a blanket requirement for every private car. Provincial governors can extend the dates within their borders by up to one month before or after the national period, so check the governor’s office and route notices before travel.
Dates and possible penalties
The ministry says the 2026–27 season runs from November 15 to April 15. Its announcement states a fine of 5,856 Turkish lira for vehicles that fall under the obligation and fail to comply. Penalties and local enforcement details can change, so drivers should check current official notices before relying on this figure.
Before setting off
- Check the tire markings, tread condition and pressure.
- Look up any provincial governor’s decision for your route.
- Carry suitable winter equipment; snow chains do not replace the winter tire requirement.
Winter tires can improve grip at temperatures below 7°C, according to the ministry. This guide summarizes the ministry’s current announcement; local notices take precedence for a specific province or journey.
Official sources and photo credit
Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure announcement · Regulation text. Photo: Biso / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0.