In most of New York State, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light, but only after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians. However, this is permitted only if there is no sign specifically prohibiting the turn. If a sign says “No Turn on Red,” you must obey it.
New York City: The Exception
The rules are very different in New York City compared to the rest of the state:
- Right turns on red are generally prohibited in all five boroughs of New York City.
- The only exception is at intersections where a sign is posted explicitly permitting a right turn on red.
- If there is no such sign, you must wait for a green light before turning right.
This stricter rule is designed to protect the city’s high volume of pedestrians and cyclists. Violating this law can result in a traffic ticket, fines, and points on your license.
Red Arrow Rule
Across all of New York State, including NYC, it is illegal to turn right on a red arrow. You must wait until the arrow turns green before making your turn.
Penalties for Illegal Right Turns on Red
If you make an illegal right turn on red in New York City:
- You can receive a ticket with a fine ranging from $50 to $300, depending on the circumstances.
- The violation adds three points to your driving record.
- Accumulating 11 points within 18 months may lead to a suspended license.
Recent Changes and Enforcement
While the basic rule (no right on red in NYC unless posted) has been in place for years, enforcement has increased. New legislation signed in 2024 expanded the use of red light cameras in New York City, increasing the number of intersections monitored from 150 to 600. These cameras automatically issue tickets for red light violations, including illegal right turns on red.
How to Stay Legal
- Outside NYC: Right turn on red is allowed after a complete stop and yielding, unless a sign prohibits it.
- Inside NYC: Do NOT turn right on red unless a sign specifically allows it.
- Red Arrow: Never turn right on a red arrow, anywhere in the state.
Key Takeaways for Drivers
| Area | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Exception/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NYC (all boroughs) | No | Only if a sign permits it |
| Rest of NY State | Yes | Unless a sign prohibits it |
| Red Arrow (anywhere) | No | Must wait for green arrow |
When in doubt, especially in New York City, always assume right turns on red are prohibited unless you see a sign that says otherwise. This approach will help you avoid fines, points, and keep everyone safer on the road.
Sources
[1] https://www.ticketdefendersny.com/understanding-new-york-s-right-on-red-law-what-every-driver-should-know
[2] https://coreway.nyc/articles/how-to-turn-right-at-an-intersection
[3] https://www.cohenandcohenlawgroup.com/red-light-ticket-ny-red-light-camera-rules/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[5] https://www.tickethelp.com/traffic-ticket-blog/can-you-make-a-right-turn-on-red-in-nyc/
