The rules for making a right turn on red (RTOR) in New York have long been a source of confusion, especially due to the stark difference between regulations in New York City (NYC) and the rest of the state. As of 2025, these rules remain consistent with prior years, but it is crucial for drivers to understand the specifics to avoid fines and points on their license.
Right Turn on Red: Statewide vs. NYC
| Location | General Rule on Right Turn on Red | Exceptions/Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | Prohibited unless a sign allows it | Only turn if a sign explicitly permits |
| Rest of New York | Permitted unless a sign prohibits it | Must come to a full stop and yield |
Details for Each Region
Outside New York City
- Right turn on red is generally allowed.
- Drivers must:
- Come to a complete stop at the red light.
- Yield to all oncoming vehicles and pedestrians.
- Check for any posted “No Turn on Red” signs; if present, turning is prohibited.
- If all conditions are met and no sign prohibits it, the turn is legal.
Inside New York City
- The rule is reversed: right turns on red are not allowed by default.
- Only make a right turn on red if there is a posted sign at the intersection explicitly stating it is permitted.
- This rule is designed to protect pedestrians and manage the high traffic volume in the city.
- Violating this rule can result in:
- Three points added to your driving record.
- Fines ranging from $50 to $300, with higher penalties if the violation involves speeding, failure to yield, or causes an accident.
Special Traffic Signal Considerations
- Flashing Red Light: Treat as a stop sign. Stop, yield, and proceed only when safe—this applies statewide, including NYC.
- Red Arrow: It is illegal to turn right on a red arrow anywhere in New York State. Wait for a green arrow or light before turning.
Recent and Upcoming Changes
- As of 2025, there have been no major changes to the core RTOR rules in New York State or NYC. However, other cities in the US, such as Washington, DC, are moving toward broader bans on right turns on red for pedestrian safety, reflecting a national trend that could influence future updates.
Key Takeaways for Drivers
- In NYC: Assume right turn on red is illegal unless a sign permits it.
- Outside NYC: Right turn on red is allowed unless a sign prohibits it, but always stop and yield first.
- Always obey posted signage and signals, including red arrows.
- Penalties for illegal turns can be significant, including fines and points on your license.
Understanding and following these rules is essential for safe driving and avoiding costly penalties in New York State in 2025.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.ticketdefendersny.com/understanding-new-york-s-right-on-red-law-what-every-driver-should-know
[2] https://www.mighty.com/blog/rules-of-the-road-nyc
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[4] https://optraffic.com/blog/what-are-the-rules-for-usa-traffic-lights/
[5] https://www.itsinternational.com/its2/its4/its5/feature/should-it-be-end-road-right-turns-red
