Washington reference

Washington chain requirements

Washington pass notices distinguish chains required, traction tires advised or required, and vehicle-specific exceptions.

What to know

Carry the chains required for your vehicle and know how to install them before reaching a chain-up area.
Four-wheel/all-wheel drive does not erase every chain requirement; WSDOT can require all vehicles to chain up.
Commercial vehicles have additional chain-carry and placement rules.
Use the direction-specific restriction shown by WSDOT for the pass you will cross.

Primary references

RCW 46.37.420 and WAC 204-24-050 govern tire-chain authority and chain requirements.

Law or official guidance Current DOT conditions

Fitment safety

Follow the vehicle manual and the traction-device maker's exact fitment table. Install only on the axle positions they permit, stop if anything rubs, and respect the device's maximum speed.

Laws, agency guidance and device approvals can change. Verify before each trip. Roadside signs and law-enforcement direction control.