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Jim Gibbons
Governor
Susan Martinovich, P.E.
Director
 

Traction and Chain Requirement Descriptions



 Snow and Ice, Take it Slow Icon

Nevada chain requirements vary from chain requirements in other states.

Below, you will find Nevada traction device requirement definitions, as well as a comparison of Nevada and California chain requirements.

NEVADA TRACTION DEVICE REQUIREMENTS:

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NEVADA/CALIFORNIA CHAIN REQUIREMENT COMPARISON

Definition of “Snow Tires” (both states): Special tread for greater traction on slippery surface and have a sidewall marking (M-S, M/S, international symbols) indicating that it is an approved all-weather tire. At least 3/16" of tread depth.

Definition of “Approved Traction Devices” (Chains):Made of steel or plastic; have cross ribs with at least one link under tire tread while in motion; connecting rings on both sides of tire.

CONDITIONS / TRACTION DEVICES NEVADA REQUIREMENTS CALIFORNIA REQUIREMENTS
Chains Required, Except For: Nevada does not use this condition. Cars and light trucks < 6,000 GVW must have mud-snow (M-S) tires on driving wheels. Motorists are advised to carry chains. Vehicles > 6,000 GVW must use chains on drive wheels. (R-1)
Chains or Snow Tires Required: Vehicles < 10,000 GVW are required to use snow tires or approved traction devices. Vehicles > 10,000 GVW must use chains on driving wheels and braking wheels of trailer. Four-wheel-drive OK with four mud-snow (M-S) tires. NAC 484.240 (1) Chains required on all vehicles, except four-wheel-drives or all-wheel-drives with snow tread tires on all four wheels. All-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles must carry chains. (R-2)
Chains Mandatory Chains required on all vehicles, except four-wheel-drive with four mud-snow (M-S) tires. NAC 484.240 (2) Chains required on ALL VEHICLES without exception. (R-3)


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