The Basic Rule
In Idaho, as of 2025, drivers are generally allowed to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop. The law requires that you stop behind the stop line, or if there is none, before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
After stopping, you must yield to all cross traffic and pedestrians who are lawfully within the intersection or crosswalk before proceeding with your right turn. This rule applies unless there is a sign posted at the intersection specifically prohibiting a right turn on red.
Exceptions and Important Details
There are key exceptions to this rule. If you encounter a red arrow, you are not permitted to turn right while the arrow is displayed. The law is clear that a steady red arrow means you must remain stopped until an indication permitting movement is shown. Only a standard circular red light allows for a right turn after stopping; a red arrow does not.
Additionally, always look for signage at intersections. If there is a sign that says “No Turn on Red,” you must wait for the green light regardless of traffic or pedestrian presence.
Yielding Requirements
Even when a right turn on red is allowed, Idaho law emphasizes the importance of yielding. You must yield the right-of-way to all pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk and to any vehicles that have the right-of-way in the intersection. Failing to yield can result in traffic citations or, worse, accidents.
Idaho’s 2025 traffic rules continue to allow right turns on red lights after a complete stop, unless a sign prohibits it or the signal is a red arrow. Always yield to pedestrians and cross traffic before turning. Remember, safety and awareness at intersections are just as important as following the letter of the law
Sources
[1] https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title49/t49ch8/sect49-802/
[2] https://apps.itd.idaho.gov/apps/dmv-audio/documents/DLChapter2.pdf
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/Idaho/comments/1kaf1rj/am_i_able_to_run_through_a_right_turn_only_red/
[4] https://www.eastidahonews.com/2025/06/can-i-turn-left-at-a-red-light-onto-a-one-way-street-what-idaho-law-says/
[5] https://www.yahoo.com/news/turn-left-red-light-onto-100000522.html
