As of late May 2025, Virginia continues to allow drivers to make right turns at red lights under certain conditions, but there is increased attention and confusion due to new laws in neighboring jurisdictions and evolving enforcement practices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current rules, recent changes, safety considerations, and what drivers should expect.
Current Law: Right Turn on Red in Virginia
- Virginia law generally permits drivers to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a posted sign prohibits it.
- The key requirements are:
- You must stop completely at the marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk.
- You must yield to all pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles lawfully within the intersection or approaching from another direction.
- If there is a sign reading “No Turn on Red,” or if a red arrow is displayed, you cannot turn right until the light turns green.
Recent Changes and Regional Confusion
- No Statewide Ban in Virginia: As of now, Virginia has not enacted a statewide ban on right turns at red lights. The rules remain as described above, with local adjustments possible at specific intersections.
- Changes in Neighboring Areas:
- Washington, D.C.: Starting January 1, 2025, D.C. has implemented a ban on right turns at red lights, except where signs specifically permit it. This may cause confusion for drivers who travel between Virginia and D.C.
- Maryland: Right turns on red remain permitted unless otherwise posted.
- Local Adjustments in Virginia: Some intersections, especially in urban or high-pedestrian areas, are increasingly marked with “No Turn on Red” signs. Drivers should watch for these signs, as enforcement (including cameras) is becoming more common.
Key Safety and Legal Considerations
- Complete Stop Required: Rolling through a red light before turning is illegal. You must come to a full stop and check for pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming traffic.
- Red Arrow Rule: A steady red arrow pointing right means no turn is allowed unless a sign specifically permits it.
- Yielding to Pedestrians and Cyclists: Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. Failing to yield can result in accidents, serious injuries, and legal consequences.
- Intersection Cameras: Some intersections now have cameras to enforce compliance. Tickets may be issued for violations, even if the intersection seems clear.
Common Causes of Right-on-Red Accidents
- Failing to yield to pedestrians or cyclists crossing the intersection.
- Not making a complete stop before turning.
- Driver distraction or inattention.
- Poor visibility due to other vehicles or obstructions.
What Drivers Should Do
- Always come to a complete stop at red lights before turning right.
- Check carefully for pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming vehicles.
- Obey all posted signs—if a “No Turn on Red” sign or red arrow is present, do not turn.
- Be aware of local changes, especially near city borders or in areas with new signage or camera enforcement.
- If traveling into D.C., remember that right turns on red are now banned unless a sign specifically allows it.
Right Turn on Red Rules (2025)
| Jurisdiction | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Exceptions/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | Yes, after stop and if clear | Prohibited where posted or with red arrow |
| Washington, D.C. | No (as of Jan 1, 2025) | Allowed only where signs specifically permit |
| Maryland | Yes, unless posted otherwise | Same as Virginia |
While Virginia’s rules for right turns on red remain largely unchanged in 2025, drivers should be vigilant about local signage and increased enforcement, especially as neighboring D.C. has enacted a near-total ban. Always stop fully, yield to others, and check for updates at specific intersections to avoid fines and keep all road users safe.
Sources
- https://www.reddit.com/r/nova/comments/1cqhmcl/did_va_law_change_in_regards_to_making_a_right/
- https://www.hsinjurylaw.com/faqs/right-turn-on-red-and-virginia-car-accidents.cfm
- https://virginiabeach.legalexaminer.com/legal/can-turning-right-on-red-lead-to-a-serious-accident/
- https://phelanpetty.com/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-red-in-virginia-and-other-rules-of-the-road/
- https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/3272368/new-laws-take-effect-virginia-maryland-dc-2025/
