In North Carolina, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop. This rule applies at most intersections unless there is a posted sign explicitly prohibiting the maneuver.
Before turning, drivers must yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic, ensuring the intersection is clear of vehicles, cyclists, and people on foot before proceeding. The law requires that you stop at the marked stop line, before entering the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line.
Key Steps for a Legal Right Turn on Red
To legally turn right on red, you must first come to a complete stop. Next, yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and any oncoming vehicles. It is essential to check for signs that state “No Turn on Red”—if such signage is present, you must wait for the green light.
Only proceed with the turn when the way is completely clear, practicing defensive driving by looking left, right, and left again before moving.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
There are exceptions to this rule. If a sign is posted at the intersection stating “No Turn on Red,” you are legally required to wait for a green light before turning. Additionally, it is illegal to turn right on a red arrow, even after coming to a complete stop.
North Carolina law only allows right turns on red circles, not red arrows, which are often used at intersections with multiple right-turn lanes or special signal configurations.
Safety and Enforcement
The state emphasizes the importance of yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, as failure to do so can result in fines and points on your driving record. Running a red light or making an illegal right turn on red can result in a fine of up to $100, three points on your driving record, and three points on your insurance record. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension and increased insurance rates.
North Carolina’s updated rule clarifies that right turns on red are generally allowed after a complete stop and when the way is clear, unless a sign prohibits it or the signal is a red arrow.
Always yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic, and check for posted restrictions before making the turn. Violating these rules can result in significant penalties, so it’s crucial to stay informed and drive safely.
Sources
[1] https://www.gofoothills.com/2025/06/04/north-carolina-new-rule-on-right-turns-at-red-lights-everything-drivers-need-to-know/
[2] https://drifttravel.com/a-guide-to-north-carolinas-right-turn-on-red-law/
[3] https://www.charlotteinjurylawyersblog.com/is-it-legal-to-turn-right-on-red-in-north-carolina/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/Charlotte/comments/18d0zeo/question_on_traffic_rule_for_right_on_red_light/
[5] https://www.browninglonglaw.com/faqs/penalties-for-running-a-red-light-in-north-carolina.cfm
