Fines Introduced for Drivers Using Summer Tyres from 1 December

Starting 1 December, Kazakhstan has officially banned the use of summer tyres during the winter season. Drivers who violate this requirement will be fined 5 Monthly Calculation Indexes (MCI), equivalent to 19,660 tenge.

For repeated violations, the fine increases to 20 MCI (78,640 tenge). From 2026, penalties will rise further as the MCI value increases to 4,325 tenge, meaning the first-time fine will reach 21,625 tenge.

According to the Technical Regulation of the Customs Union on the Safety of Wheeled Vehicles, the use of summer tyres is prohibited from 1 December to 28 February. This requirement is also included in Kazakhstan’s Traffic Rules, and violating it results in administrative liability.

Types of winter tyres:

• Studded tyres – provide strong grip on ice and slippery roads but tend to be noisier and increase fuel consumption.

• Friction (“non-studded”) tyres – suitable for milder climates and city driving, quieter but offer slightly less grip on ice.

Experts emphasize that all four wheels must be equipped with identical winter tyres. It is prohibited to install tyres with different sizes or tread patterns on the same axle.

Winter tire tread depth must be at least 4 mm, and the sidewall must display either the M+S marking or the “three-peak mountain snowflake” symbol, confirming they are designed for winter use.

After installation, drivers are advised to check wheel balancing, alignment, and tire pressure. On average, winter tyres have a lifespan of 5–6 years.