Traction and Chain Requirement Descriptions
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:
NEVADA/CALIFORNIA CHAIN REQUIREMENT COMPARISON
| 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) |
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.