Illinois Tire Tread Depth Law: Minimum 2/32 Inch

Yes, Illinois law mandates minimum tire tread depth.

Statute: 625 ILCS 5/12-401 (Illinois Vehicle Code)

Requirement: All tires on vehicles operated on highways must have at least 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) tread depth in all major grooves.

🔍 Key Points:

• Applies to all vehicle types (cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers).
• Measured at three points around circumference; lowest reading counts.
• Wear bars (tread wear indicators) at 2/32" signal illegal wear.
• Penalty: Traffic citation, fine (~$100+), possible vehicle inspection failure.
• Safety recommendation: Replace at 4/32" (wet traction) or 6/32" (snow).

Check monthly with gauge or penny test (Lincoln's head covered = >2/32").