The General Rule
In all 50 states, you may turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. This rule has been in effect since the 1970s when it was adopted nationwide to reduce fuel consumption and traffic congestion.
The Steps for a Legal Right on Red
1. Come to a complete stop at the stop line or before the crosswalk. A rolling stop is illegal and a common reason for getting a ticket or failing the DMV test.
2. Yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and any vehicles that have a green light.
3. Check for a No Turn on Red sign. These signs are posted at intersections where right turns on red are prohibited, often due to limited visibility or heavy pedestrian traffic.
4. Check traffic. Look left, right, and left again before proceeding.
5. Turn when safe. Make the turn only when you have a clear gap in traffic.
When You Cannot Turn Right on Red
You cannot turn right on red when a No Turn on Red sign is posted, when a red arrow is showing for your direction, when pedestrians are in the crosswalk, when your view of oncoming traffic is blocked, and in New York City, where right on red is prohibited at all intersections unless a sign specifically allows it.
Left Turn on Red
In some states, you may also turn left on red when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. This is less commonly known and is a frequent DMV test question.
DMV Test Tips
Right turn on red questions are very common. Remember: you must always stop first, yield to pedestrians, and check for prohibition signs. The most commonly missed point is that a complete stop is required, not just slowing down.