WSDOT traction tire rules for SeaTac rental cars in winter
Verified: 2026-05-30
At a glance
Chains required when signs flash; AWD not exempt in severe bands
What to know
Topic-specific long guide — no rental shuttle/CFC boilerplate
In-depth guide
What to expect on your trip
- WSDOT Phase 2/3 chain requirements on I-90 Snoqualmie and US-2 Stevens apply to all vehicles including rentals — AWD is not exempt when chains required except AWD signs are not posted.
- Studded tires allowed Nov 1–Mar 31; rental fleets rarely offer them.
- Minimum tread 4/32" on mountain routes.
- February Sea-Tac normals: 50°F high — passes can be 20°F colder.
- Book via when-to-book-awd-rental-seatac-forecast when models show <35°F lows.
WSDOT Phase 2/3 chain requirements on I-90 Snoqualmie and US-2 Stevens apply to all vehicles including rentals — AWD is not exempt when chains required except AWD signs are not posted. Studded tires allowed Nov 1–Mar 31; rental fleets rarely offer them. Minimum tread 4/32" on mountain routes. February Sea-Tac normals: 50°F high — passes can be 20°F colder. Book via when-to-book-awd-rental-seatac-forecast when models show <35°F lows. Penalties $136+ for non-compliance — not covered by CDW.
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