winter equipment in Croatia from 15 November: tyres and chains explained
From 15 November to 15 April, winter equipment is mandatory on Croatia's winter road sections, whatever the weather. What counts, what the fine is and where to check road conditions.
If you're driving to Croatia this winter, there's one date worth remembering: 15 November. From then until 15 April, winter equipment is mandatory on designated winter road sections, whatever the weather is doing. The rule applies to foreign drivers and rental cars too.
where and when the rule applies
Under Croatia's Decision on the Mandatory Use of Winter Equipment, the obligation runs from 15 November to 15 April and covers all motor vehicles. Winter sections (*zimske dionice*) are the roads listed in that decision, including the A1 to A6 motorways and a number of state roads.
Outside those sections, winter equipment becomes mandatory whenever there are winter conditions, meaning snow or ice on the road.
what counts as winter equipment
For cars and vans up to 3.5 tonnes you have two options:
| Option | What you need |
|---|---|
| Winter tyres | on all four wheels, marked M+S, M.S., M&S or 3PMSF (the snowflake-on-a-mountain symbol) |
| Summer tyres | at least 4 mm of tread on all wheels, plus snow chains in the car, ready to fit on the drive wheels |
Chains must be type-approved, and studded tyres are not allowed. The Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) states that a driver without the required winter equipment faces a fine of €130.
lights, bura wind and road conditions
From the autumn clock change until the spring clock change, daytime running lights are compulsory for all vehicles, not just motorcycles. You also need a reflective vest, a warning triangle and a first-aid kit in the car, plus spare bulbs unless your car has xenon or LED lights.
On the Adriatic, the *bura* (a strong, gusty north-easterly wind) often causes more trouble in winter than snow. It can close road sections to certain groups of vehicles, such as motorcycles, vehicles towing trailers and double-decker buses, and sometimes a road stays open to passenger cars only. Bura can also suspend ferry and catamaran lines. HAK publishes live updates on its road conditions page and on 072 777 777. For roadside assistance call 1987, and for emergencies 112.
Heading to Zagreb for Advent? The same advice applies to a short weekend trip; dates and locations are in our guide to Advent in Zagreb 2026. And if you want to know how motorway tolls will be paid from 2027, read our article on barrier-free tolling.
tips before you set off
- When renting a car, ask whether it has winter tyres or chains, and check the marking on the tyre.
- If you're on summer tyres, measure the tread and put the chains in the boot before you leave, not on the way.
- Practise fitting the chains at home, on dry ground, so you know how they go on.
- Before crossing Gorski kotar, Lika or Velebit (Croatia's mountain regions), check the HAK road report.
- When the bura is blowing, expect detours and a longer drive, and check restrictions if you're towing.
- Keep your lights on and leave more distance; stopping distances are longer on wet roads.
If your route takes you through Lika, our guide to Plitvice Lakes out of season is worth a read too.