In Oklahoma, as of 2025, drivers are allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign at the intersection specifically prohibits the turn. This rule applies to most intersections, but there are important conditions and safety requirements to keep in mind.
Key Requirements for Right Turn on Red
Complete Stop: Drivers must come to a full stop at the marked stop line, before the crosswalk, or before entering the intersection if there is no line or crosswalk present. A complete stop is necessary before making the right turn.
Yielding: Before making the right turn, drivers must yield to any pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk and to any other vehicles already in the intersection. This ensures that pedestrian and vehicular traffic is not interrupted by the turn.
Sign Prohibitions: If there is a posted sign that states “No Turn on Red,” drivers must not turn right at that intersection, regardless of whether it is safe to do so.
Left Turn on Red
Oklahoma also permits a left turn on red, but only under specific circumstances. Drivers can make a left turn on red, but this is allowed only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street. The same rules apply, including the requirement to come to a complete stop and yield to any pedestrians or vehicles in the intersection.
Safety and Enforcement
Violations: If a driver violates the right turn on red laws, they may face fines, points on their driving record, and even jail time for repeat offenses.
Municipalities and Local Rules: While the general rule allows right turns on red, some municipalities may limit or ban right turns on red, especially in high-traffic or pedestrian-heavy areas. Drivers should be aware of local regulations and posted signs.
Oklahoma Right Turn on Red (2025)
| Action | Allowed? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on red | Yes | After complete stop; yield to pedestrians/traffic; unless prohibited by sign |
| Left turn on red (one-way) | Yes | Only from one-way street to one-way street; after stop; unless prohibited by sign |
| Proceed without stopping | No | Must always stop first before turning |
| Turn if sign prohibits | No | Obey posted “No Turn on Red” signs |
In Oklahoma, drivers can legally make a right turn on red after stopping and yielding, unless there is a sign that prohibits it. Always ensure to check for posted signs and be mindful of pedestrians and cross-traffic before turning.
Sources
[1] https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/title-47/section-47-11-202/
[2] https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/traffic-tickets/moving-violations/running-red-lights-and-stop-33
[3] https://www.caraccidenthelp.com/auto-accident/right-of-way.html
[4] https://www.findlaw.com/traffic/traffic-tickets/oklahoma-traffic-laws.html
