In New Mexico, the longstanding rule allowing drivers to turn right at red lights remains largely unchanged in 2025. Drivers are permitted to make a right turn after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear, except where posted signs prohibit such turns. This rule promotes efficient traffic flow while prioritizing safety for drivers, pedestrians, and other road users.
What the Law Requires for Right Turns on Red
New Mexico law mandates drivers who wish to turn right on a red light must:
Come to a complete stop before the crosswalk or stop line.
Yield the right of way to pedestrians within the crosswalk and to any vehicles with the legal right to proceed.
Check for signage prohibiting right turns on red at some intersections and obey these signs without exception.
This cautious approach ensures that the right-turn-on-red maneuver does not create hazards at intersections.
What’s New in 2025? Changes for Cyclists, Not Drivers
While New Mexico has retained its existing rules for drivers, a new law effective July 1, 2025, introduces adjustments specifically for bicyclists, not motorists.
Cyclists can now treat stop signs as yield signs, rolling through them when safe without stopping fully.
At red lights, cyclists can stop fully and then proceed if the intersection is clear, a practice known as the “Idaho stop.”
This change is designed to improve safety and traffic flow for cyclists by reducing the risk of collisions at intersections and allowing smoother momentum. Drivers must still follow the requirement to stop fully and yield before turning right on red.
Why the Right Turn on Red Rule Exists
The right turn on red rule was federally encouraged in the 1990s to help conserve fuel and reduce traffic congestion. By allowing vehicles to turn after stopping, traffic moves more efficiently, especially in urban intersections.
In New Mexico, this rule balances convenience with caution, preventing unnecessary idling and keeping traffic flowing while ensuring pedestrian safety.
Important Tips for Drivers in New Mexico
Always make a full stop before turning right on red—rolling stops are illegal and unsafe.
Look carefully for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles with the right of way.
Obey any “No Turn on Red” signs posted at intersections—these override the general rule.
Be aware of the new rules for bicyclists, and watch for cyclists who may behave differently at stops and lights.
New Mexico’s 2025 traffic laws maintain the traditional right turn on red rule for drivers: stop fully, yield, then turn if safe. However, the state has innovated for cyclists with the “Idaho stop” law, allowing bicycle riders better movement through intersections. Drivers should continue exercising caution and obey all signs to ensure safety at intersections while benefiting from the efficiency this rule provides.
Sources
[1](https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/09/new-mexico-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/)
[2](https://nmpoliticalreport.com/2025/03/26/new-mexico-to-allow-cyclists-to-roll-through-stop-signs/)
[3](https://www.thedominguezlawfirm.com/blog/what-to-know-about-new-mexico-right-of-way-traffic-laws/)
[4](https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/new-mexico-red-light-stop-sign-tickets.html)
[5](https://www.kob.com/news/top-news/what-new-laws-are-now-in-effect-in-new-mexico-in-july-2025/)
