Virginia drivers need to be aware of important new rules and stricter enforcement regarding right turns at red lights that took effect starting January 1, 2025. While the basic law allowing right turns on red after a complete stop remains unchanged statewide, significant updates now affect how, where, and when you can make these turns, especially in urban and high-traffic areas.
What the Law Says
In Virginia, you are still legally permitted to turn right at a red light—but only after coming to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk. You must yield to all pedestrians lawfully crossing and to oncoming vehicles with a green light. If there is a posted sign reading “No Turn on Red,” you are not allowed to turn.
What Changed in 2025?
Local governments in cities like Alexandria, Arlington, Richmond, and parts of Fairfax County have begun installing more prominent “No Turn on Red” signs at intersections, especially in busy pedestrian areas. These signs are larger, more visible, and sometimes paired with flashing signals to alert drivers. Some intersections now use red arrow signals that stay lit longer during high foot-traffic periods, further restricting right turns.
Automated enforcement is now active at select intersections: traffic cameras will record vehicles that make illegal or unsafe right turns on red, particularly those that fail to come to a full stop or do not yield to pedestrians. Fines and penalties for violations have increased, with special attention paid to school zones and urban crosswalks. Police have also been directed to focus enforcement efforts on right-turn-on-red violations in these areas.
Why the Changes?
The updates are a response to a rise in pedestrian injuries and fatalities, many of which occurred during right turns on red when drivers failed to yield. The new rules are designed to protect pedestrians, especially in school zones, downtown intersections, and other areas with heavy foot traffic.
What Drivers Need to Do
Always stop fully before turning right on red. Rolling stops are illegal and now more likely to be enforced by cameras and police.
Check for new “No Turn on Red” signs—even at intersections where you’ve previously been able to turn.
Yield to all pedestrians and cyclists in the crosswalk.
Look for red arrow signals, which mean you cannot turn until the arrow turns off, unless a sign specifically allows it.
Expect longer wait times at some intersections and increased law enforcement presence in city centers.
If you are unsure whether a right turn on red is allowed at a particular intersection, it is safest to stop, look for signage, and only proceed if you are certain it is legal and safe to do so. Navigation apps may not always reflect the latest changes, so rely on posted signs and signals rather than digital guidance.
Virginia’s new rules and enforcement measures make it crucial for drivers to pay close attention at intersections, especially in urban areas. Failing to comply can result in fines, points on your license, and increased risk to pedestrians.
Sources
[1] https://keeferlaw.org/2025-virginia-traffic-rule-update/
[2] https://phelanpetty.com/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-red-in-virginia-and-other-rules-of-the-road/
[3] https://virginiabeach.legalexaminer.com/legal/can-turning-right-on-red-lead-to-a-serious-accident/
[4] https://www.norfolk.gov/4601/Right-Turn-on-Red-Law
[5] https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/3272368/new-laws-take-effect-virginia-maryland-dc-2025/
