U.S., tire chain requirements enforced in mountainous and snowy regions.

In the U.S., tire chain requirements are typically enforced in mountainous and snowy regions, especially during winter months. Here are the main locations where tire chains are commonly required:

1. California

• Sierra Nevada Mountains: During winter storms, tire chains are often required on Interstate 80 (I-80) and U.S. Highway 50, particularly near Donner Pass and Echo Summit. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) provides real-time updates on chain requirements.

2. Colorado

• Rocky Mountains: The state enforces a Traction Law or Passenger Vehicle Chain Law during winter on highways like Interstate 70 (I-70), especially between Denver and Vail. Chains or snow tires are typically required on mountain passes, including Vail Pass and Eisenhower Tunnel.

3. Washington

• Cascade Mountains: Tire chains are often required on mountain passes, particularly along Interstate 90 (I-90) through Snoqualmie Pass. Chain laws are enforced during snowy conditions by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

4. Oregon

• Cascade Mountains: Tire chains are frequently required on highways like U.S. Highway 26, which crosses Mount Hood. Chains are often mandatory on passes such as Santiam Pass (OR 22) and Willamette Pass (OR 58).

5. Nevada

• Lake Tahoe Region: The area around Lake Tahoe, including routes like U.S. Highway 50 and Interstate 80, often requires tire chains in the winter due to snowstorms.

6. Idaho

• Sawtooth Range and Other Mountain Areas: The Idaho Department of Transportation may require tire chains in areas like the Sawtooth Mountains or during severe winter weather.

7. Montana

• Mountain Passes: In winter, tire chains may be required on certain highways, such as the Beartooth Highway (U.S. Highway 212) and through areas like Marias Pass.

8. Utah

• Wasatch Mountains: Chain requirements are common during winter in ski areas and mountain passes, such as Little Cottonwood Canyon (State Route 210) near Salt Lake City.

9. Alaska

• Statewide: Tire chains are common across many parts of Alaska, especially on highways leading in and out of Anchorage and Fairbanks, and in remote areas where snow removal may be limited.

10. Wyoming

• Teton Pass and Yellowstone Region: Wyoming may require chains on mountain highways, especially in areas like Teton Pass or near Yellowstone National Park.

In these areas, chain control signs will notify drivers when chains are mandatory. Tire chain requirements are usually dependent on current weather conditions and the type of vehicle being driven.