Missouri drivers, take note: right turns at red lights are a hot topic, with safety and legal clarity at the forefront. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how to stay compliant and safe on Missouri roads.
What Is the Current Law on Right Turns at Red Lights?
As of 2025, Missouri’s core rule remains unchanged: drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a posted sign specifically prohibits it. However, several cities and intersections may now have new signage or local ordinances restricting this maneuver in response to safety concerns.
Key Points:
Complete Stop Required: You must stop fully before the crosswalk or intersection line.
Yielding: Yield to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic with the right of way.
Signage Matters: If a sign says “No Turn on Red,” you must obey it.
Local Restrictions: Some municipalities are increasing the number of intersections where right on red is banned, especially in areas with high pedestrian or cyclist traffic.
Why the Focus on Right Turns at Red?
Recent studies and safety campaigns have highlighted the risks right turns on red pose to pedestrians and cyclists. Research shows that most drivers do not come to a complete stop, increasing the risk of collisions5. As a result, some Missouri cities are reviewing intersections and installing more “No Turn on Red” signs, particularly near schools, busy crosswalks, and transit stops.
How to Make a Legal Right Turn on Red
Follow these steps to ensure you’re within the law:
Stop Completely at the intersection or before the crosswalk.
Check for Signs prohibiting right turns on red.
Yield to Pedestrians in the crosswalk and any vehicles with a green light.
Proceed Only When Safe—never treat a red light as a yield sign.
Turn from the Right Lane into the rightmost lane of the cross street.
Table: Right Turn on Red—Missouri at a Glance
| Scenario | Is It Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No sign, after full stop | Yes | Must yield to pedestrians and traffic |
| “No Turn on Red” sign posted | No | Must wait for green light |
| Pedestrian in crosswalk | No | Wait until crosswalk is clear |
| Turning from wrong lane | No | Must turn from rightmost lane |
| Rolling stop (not fully stopped) | No | Complete stop is required |
| Local ordinance bans right on red at intersection | No | Obey local signage and rules |
Penalties for Violations
Fines: $5 to $500 for running a red light or illegal turn.
Points: At least one point on your driving record per violation.
Potential for License Suspension: Accumulating too many points can lead to suspension.
Increased Enforcement: Expect more monitoring at intersections with new restrictions1.
Missouri’s statewide rule still allows right turns at red lights after a full stop and when safe, unless otherwise posted. However, with growing safety concerns, expect more intersections—especially in urban areas—to prohibit the maneuver. Always look for signs, yield to pedestrians, and never rush the turn. Staying alert and informed will keep you safe and legal on Missouri roads.
Sources
[1] https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/traffic-tickets/moving-violations/running-red-lights-and-stop-23
[2] https://www.springfieldmo.gov/407/Right-Turns-on-Red
[3] https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=304.281
[4] https://roachlawoffice.com/blog/right-of-way-laws-in-missouri/
[5] https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/right-turns-on-red-light-put-pedestrians-at-risk-mineta-study/738332/
