Tyre Laws
Understanding tyre law is essential for keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy. At Staysure Tyres, we’re here to help drivers and fleet operators stay compliant with UK regulations and avoid unnecessary fines or safety risks.
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) – over 3,500kg
For HGVs, UK law requires that:
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The tyre must have a minimum tread depth of 1.0mm across a continuous band covering at least three-quarters of the tread's width and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre.
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If the original tread grooves don’t extend across three-quarters of the tread width, any groove that was part of the original pattern must have a minimum depth of 1.0mm.
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Excluded features (not counted as tread) include tie bars, tread wear indicators, and any design elements made to wear away before the main grooves.
Failing to meet these standards can result in fines, penalty points, and increased risk of accidents.
Cars and Passenger Vehicles – up to 3,500kg
For cars, vans and passenger vehicles, the legal minimum tread depth in the UK and across the EU is 1.6mm throughout a continuous band covering the central three-quarters of the tread width and around the full circumference of the tyre.
Most car tyres include tread wear indicators – small raised sections inside the main grooves. When the tread wears down to the same level as these indicators, the tyre has reached the legal limit and must be replaced.
Simple, affordable tread depth gauges are available to help you check tyre wear easily. Remember, tyre tread depth directly affects your grip — particularly in wet conditions — so as tyres wear down, you should reduce speed and plan to replace them well before they hit the legal minimum.
The 1.6mm minimum limit applies to:
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Cars and passenger vehicles with up to 8 seated passengers (excluding the driver)
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Motor vehicles and light trailers, including caravans, up to 3,500kg gross vehicle weight
Staysure Tyres – helping you stay safe and legal on the road.
