Winter driving in Québec is no joke, and the province has strict rules about it. If you’re renting a car in Montréal during the cold months, here’s the reassuring part: the same law that makes winter tires mandatory also has you covered as a renter. Here’s what Québec’s snow-tire law says, and exactly what it means when you rent.

Québec’s winter-tire law, in plain terms

From December 1 to March 15, every passenger vehicle registered in Québec must be equipped with winter tires — and that explicitly includes rental cars. To be compliant, the tires must carry the pictogram of a peaked mountain with a snowflake (or be studded). Driving without proper winter tires during that window can bring a fine of $200 to $300. (See the Gouvernement du Québec’s winter-tire requirements.)

What this means when you rent from U-Lease

Because our vehicles are registered in Québec, they’re legally required to be on winter tires during that period. So when you rent from U-Lease between December 1 and March 15, your car already comes properly equipped — you don’t need to bring, buy, or swap anything. You’re road-legal and winter-ready the moment you drive off. (And as always, no credit card is required — see what you need to rent.)

A few winter-driving tips for Montréal

• Give yourself extra stopping distance — even good winter tires need more room on ice.
• Clear all the snow and ice off the car before you go: windows, roof, lights, and licence plate.
• Keep the fuel tank fuller in deep cold, and stash a scraper and a small emergency kit.
• Slow down on bridges and highway ramps — they freeze first.

Winter also means more fender-benders. If your own car is ever off the road after a collision, here’s how a replacement vehicle works.

Book ahead for winter

Winter is peak season for short-term and replacement rentals in Montréal — storms, breakdowns, and holiday travel all spike demand at once. Reserving a few days early means you get the vehicle you want, already on winter tires, without the last-minute scramble.

Winter-driving tips here are general information, not legal or safety advice. Road rules and requirements can change — check the Gouvernement du Québec for the current rules.