It's Dec. 15, and that means drivers in Quebec must have their vehicles equipped with winter tires.

Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from Dec. 15 until March 15. If you do not have them installed, you could be fined anywhere between $200 to $300.

The law applies to all passenger vehicles registered in the province, including taxis.

Exemptions

There are a few cases where mandatory winter tires are exempt and you will not be fined. Quebec's automobile insurance board, the SAAQ, lists several examples, including:

the first 7 days following the purchase of a passenger vehicle from a dealer.

the last 7 days before the end of a lease of 12 months or more.

passenger vehicles with dealer plates (X plates).

motor homes.

Tips for used tires

If you're shopping for used tires, the SAAQ says it's wise to check the date they were made.

"On the tire wall, find the DOT identification number that ends with a 4-digit number. That 4-digit number corresponds to the 2-digit week and 2-digit year in which the tire was made. For example, 3613 means that the tire was made in the 36th week of 2013," the SAAQ website states.

Tires can generally last through three Montreal winters, but if you don't use them often they can be used for four or five.

You should also check the depth of the treads. It is recommended that tires have treads of at least 4.8-millimetres deep at the time of installation to ensure better traction.

Clear your car too

Now that you're ready to drive on the snow, don't forget to clear your car of snow as well, including the windshield, flashers and reflectors.

If you are driving a "mobile igloo," as the SAAQ describes it, an officer can slap you with a fine ranging from $100 to $200.