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South Carolina Studded Tires Laws (2026)

Permitted: Studded tires are legal year-round in South Carolina — there's no seasonal limit — as long as studs project no more than 1/16 inch when compressed.

PermittedVerified Jun 20, 2026

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Studded tires are legal year-round in South Carolina — there's no seasonal limit — as long as studs project no more than 1/16 inch when compressed. See S.C. Code 56-5-5040.

Official source: scstatehouse.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Studded Tires in states bordering South Carolina

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

GeorgiaConditional
In Georgia, safety metal spike studs are permitted only when required for safety because of snow, ice or other conditions tending to cause a vehicle to skid (O.C.G.A. § 40-8-74); tire chains of reasonable proportions are allowed on the same terms. …
Verified Jul 30, 2026 · Source: legis.ga.gov · Full Georgia rule →
North CarolinaPermitted
Studded snow tires are permitted year-round in North Carolina. Studs may project no more than 1/16 inch beyond the tread. See N.C. Gen. Stat. 20-122.
Verified Jun 20, 2026 · Source: ncleg.gov · Full North Carolina rule →

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