Turning right on red is a common maneuver at intersections across Pennsylvania, but drivers must understand the latest rules to stay compliant and safe. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the right turn on red regulations in Pennsylvania as of 2025, including updates, exceptions, and related safety laws.
Current Rule for Right Turn on Red
- In Pennsylvania, drivers are permitted to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign is posted at the intersection stating “NO TURN ON RED”.
- Before making the turn, drivers must yield to all pedestrians and cross-traffic. The intersection must be clear, and it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure it is safe to proceed.
- The same rule applies to a red arrow: you may turn right after stopping unless a sign prohibits it, but you must yield to others.
2025 Rule Update: What’s Changed?
- No Major Change to Right Turn on Red: As of May 2025, Pennsylvania has not enacted a statewide ban or significant restriction on right turns on red, unlike recent changes in Washington, D.C., or New York City. The longstanding rule—stop, yield, and turn if safe and not prohibited by signage—remains in effect.
- Intersection-Specific Restrictions: Municipalities or local authorities may post “NO TURN ON RED” signs at specific intersections based on safety considerations. Always check for signage before turning.
- Red Light Malfunction Law: Pennsylvania’s “Ride on Red” law, which remains in effect, allows drivers to proceed through a red light (after stopping and ensuring it is safe) if the traffic signal is malfunctioning or fails to detect their vehicle—most relevant for motorcycles and bicycles, but applicable to all vehicles in such scenarios. This law does not apply to functioning red lights where right turn on red is otherwise permitted or prohibited by sign.
Related 2025 Law: Distracted Driving Ban
- Paul Miller’s Law: Effective June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania will begin enforcing a ban on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving, including when stopped at a red light. While this law does not directly alter right turn on red rules, it impacts driver behavior at intersections—drivers must not use hand-held devices while waiting to turn right on red.
How to Safely Execute a Right Turn on Red in 2025
- Stop Completely: Come to a full stop before the crosswalk or stop line.
- Check for Signs: Look for “NO TURN ON RED” signs. If present, you must wait for the green light.
- Yield to Pedestrians and Traffic: Ensure all pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk and that cross-traffic has the right-of-way.
- Proceed When Safe: If the intersection is clear, you may turn right on red.
- No Distractions: Do not use a hand-held phone while stopped or turning, per the new distracted driving law.
Special Considerations
- Left Turn on Red: You may turn left on red from a one-way street onto another one-way street, unless prohibited by signage, following the same stop-and-yield requirements.
- Malfunctioning Signals: If a traffic light is unresponsive (malfunctioning), treat it as a stop sign and proceed with caution when safe.
Quick Reference Table
| Scenario | Is Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| No sign, functioning signal | Yes | Stop, yield to pedestrians/traffic |
| “NO TURN ON RED” sign posted | No | Must wait for green light |
| Malfunctioning or stuck red light | Yes (Ride on Red law) | Stop, ensure safe, proceed with caution |
| Using hand-held phone at red light | No (from June 5, 2025) | Must use hands-free or not use device |
In 2025, Pennsylvania continues to allow right turns on red after a complete stop and proper yielding, unless a posted sign prohibits the maneuver. The most significant new regulation is the distracted driving law, which bans hand-held device use even while stopped at a red light. Always remain vigilant for pedestrians, signage, and local rules, and never proceed through a red light unless the law specifically permits it due to a malfunctioning signal.
Sources
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dmv/driver-services/pennsylvania-drivers-manual/online-drivers-manual/signals.html
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dmv/driver-services/pennsylvania-drivers-manual/online-drivers-manual/everyday-driving-skills/turning-merging-and-passing.html
- https://www.tthlaw.com/d-c-passes-bill-banning-right-turns-at-red-lights-and-implements-the-idaho-stop-for-cyclists/
- https://www.cmlaw1.com/need-know-pennsylvanias-ride-red-law/
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/penndot/news-and-media/newsroom/statewide/2025/-paul-miller-s-law–effective-june-5.html
