In 2025, New Mexico continues to follow its established rule regarding right turns on red traffic lights for drivers, with no major changes implemented in this aspect. The law allows drivers to turn right at a red light unless there is a sign prohibiting it.
However, drivers must always come to a complete stop before the crosswalk and yield to pedestrians and other traffic before making the turn. This rule has been in place for years and remains crucial for maintaining safety at intersections while helping traffic flow more smoothly.
Key Points of the Right Turn on Red Rule in New Mexico
Drivers may turn right on red unless a “No Turn on Red” sign is posted.
A full stop is required before crossing the pedestrian crosswalk.
Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles with the right of way.
The rule helps conserve fuel and reduce wait times at stoplights.
What’s New in 2025?
While the right turn on red rule for drivers remains unchanged, an important update affects cyclists in New Mexico starting July 1, 2025. Under Senate Bill 73, New Mexico adopted the “Idaho Stop” law for bicycles, allowing cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs — meaning they must stop fully at red lights but can proceed through intersections if it is safe and clear.
This adjustment aims to increase cyclist safety and reduce collisions at intersections by allowing a more natural and predictable flow of bicycle traffic.
Why the Rule Matters
The right turn on red rule for drivers balances the need for efficient traffic movement and pedestrian safety. The complete stop ensures that all road users can be seen and safely navigate intersections. The rule also plays an important role in fuel savings by reducing idle wait times for vehicles.
Safety Reminders
Always watch for signs that prohibit right turns on red.
Stay alert for pedestrians, especially in urban areas or near schools.
Mirror the cautious approach recommended for cyclists by ensuring intersections are clear before proceeding.
2025 Right Turn on Red Rules in New Mexico
| Road User | Right Turn on Red Rule | Idaho Stop (2025 Update) |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | Stop fully, yield, then turn right | Not applicable |
| Cyclists | Must stop fully, then wait to proceed | Allowed to treat stop as yield and red as stop and proceed if safe |
New Mexico’s right turn on red rule for drivers remains the same in 2025, requiring a full stop and yielding before turning. The notable change is for cyclists, who now benefit from more flexible movement through intersections aimed at improving safety.
Drivers should continue following existing laws carefully while being mindful of increased cyclist activity at intersections due to the new Idaho Stop law.
Sources
[1] https://www.kob.com/news/top-news/what-new-laws-are-now-in-effect-in-new-mexico-in-july-2025/
[2] https://www.granolaw.com/blog/2025-nm-legislation-how-the-new-laws-affect-your-rights/
[3] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/09/new-mexico-traffic-rule-2025-update-understanding-the-right-turn-on-red-rule/
[4] https://themotherinlaw.net/turning-right-on-red-the-why-and-how/
[5] https://www.dot.nm.gov/blog/2025/07/02/new-mexico-adopts-idaho-stop-for-cyclists/
