In 2025, traffic rules in Iowa have been revisited as part of a broader effort to streamline road safety and clarify longstanding vehicle laws. Among the most common questions is whether and how drivers may turn right at a red traffic light. Here’s an in-depth update on Iowa’s right turn on red rule, practical guidelines, and the implications for drivers in 2025.
The Core Rule: Right Turn on Red Permitted
In Iowa, drivers are allowed to make a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop at the intersection, unless there are signs posted that specifically prohibit such a maneuver. This decades-old rule remains unchanged, reaffirmed in recent updates and publications from the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT).
Complete Stop Required: Before making the turn, drivers must stop fully at the light, not just roll through the intersection.
Yielding Obligation: Drivers must yield to all other vehicles with the right-of-way, as well as any pedestrians lawfully using the crosswalk or intersection.
Watch for Restrictive Signage: If you see signs stating “No Turn on Red” at a particular intersection, right turns on red are not allowed at that location and failing to comply can earn you a citation.
Cautious Entry: Any turn that could endanger pedestrians or oncoming vehicles is considered unlawful and may result in penalties or liability for accidents.
Legal Basis and Recent Legislative Context
Iowa’s rules regarding right turns on red are established in section 321.257 of the Iowa Code and are reinforced by local municipal regulations as needed. In 2025, the Iowa DOT is conducting a statewide review of administrative traffic rules, but as of July 2025, there have been no amendments changing the core “right turn on red” policy.
Key provisions include:
Local jurisdictions retain the authority to post additional signage at certain intersections to prohibit right turns on red when unique traffic or safety concerns apply.
Common Exceptions
No Turn on Red Intersections: Some intersections in cities like Pella, West Des Moines, and Sac City specifically prohibit right turns on red with clear signage.
Construction and Unusual Configurations: Temporary or permanent changes due to road work or unique layouts may include right-turn restrictions.
New 2025 Initiatives: Enhanced Safety
While the right turn on red rule itself hasn’t changed, 2025 has brought significant emphasis on distracted driving and pedestrian safety. Iowa’s new hands-free law (effective July 1, 2025) targets distracted driving by prohibiting the use of handheld devices at the wheel.
This underscores the state’s focus on safer intersections, making it more crucial for drivers to be attentive—especially when turning on red.
Penalties and Liability
Failure to Stop: Rolling through a red light before turning can result in fines.
Yielding Violations: Not yielding to pedestrians or oncoming traffic before turning may lead to traffic citations or more severe penalties if an accident occurs.
Obeying Posted Signs: Ignoring a “No Turn on Red” sign is a traffic violation subject to penalties.
Quick Reference Table
The right turn on red rule in Iowa allows drivers to turn right at a red light after a complete stop, provided the way is clear and there are no posted signs prohibiting the turn.
The state continues its strong commitment to intersection safety, and new distracted driving laws further reinforce the need for driver attentiveness. As always, knowing the law and staying alert at the wheel is the best strategy for safe and legal driving in Iowa.
For the latest updates and specific intersection restrictions, check Iowa DOT communications or your local municipality’s signage.
Sources
[1] https://www.iowa350.com/en/traffic-rules-in-iowa
[2] https://jsberrylaw.com/faqs/iowa-road-laws-liability-in-right-turn-auto-accidents/
[3] https://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/dlmanual/dlmanual.pdf
[4] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/pella/latest/pella_ia/0-0-0-1707
[5] https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/saccityia/latest/saccity_ia/0-0-0-4309
