Maryland’s traffic regulations, particularly regarding turning right on red lights, have seen updates aimed at enhancing road safety and clarity for drivers. This article provides an overview of Maryland’s right turn on red rule as of 2025 and explains what drivers need to know to comply with the law.
The Basics of Right Turn on Red in Maryland
In Maryland, the general rule allows vehicles facing a steady red traffic light to make a right turn after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the intersection is clear of pedestrians and cross traffic. This means drivers must fully stop, look carefully for oncoming vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, and only proceed when it is safe to do so. The law emphasizes caution and the driver’s responsibility to yield right-of-way as necessary.
When is Right Turn on Red Prohibited?
Despite the general allowance, right turns on red are prohibited where signage explicitly forbids it. Since 2025, Montgomery County and other parts of Maryland have increased the number of “No Turn on Red” signs at specific intersections to improve pedestrian safety and prevent accidents caused by limited visibility or heavy foot traffic.
Drivers should always look for these signs and obey them. Ignoring a “No Turn on Red” sign can result in fines and penalty points on a driver’s license.
New Enforcement and Penalties in Montgomery County
In a key 2025 update, Montgomery County implemented stricter enforcement measures for intersections with “No Turn on Red” signs. Violators face a fine of $90 and 1 point on their driver’s license. This crackdown aims to reduce accidents and improve pedestrian safety in busy urban areas like downtown Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Wheaton.
Safety First: Knowing When and How to Turn Right on Red
Maryland law stresses that the right turn on red is permissive, not mandatory. Drivers may turn right on red but are not required to do so if conditions are not safe. For example, if pedestrians are crossing or cross traffic is approaching, the driver must wait. The law places the responsibility on drivers to use good judgment and prioritize safety.
Common Misunderstandings About Right Turn on Red
There is often confusion about whether drivers must turn right on a red light when legal. Maryland’s rule is clear: drivers may turn right on red only after stopping and ensuring it is safe. If a driver chooses not to turn, they do not violate the law, though courteous behavior dictates not holding traffic unnecessarily.
Recommendations for Maryland Drivers
Always come to a complete stop at red lights before turning right.
Look carefully for other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Obey “No Turn on Red” signs strictly.
Remember the right turn on red is a privilege, not a right.
Stay informed about local changes, especially in counties with recent updates like Montgomery.
Maryland’s 2025 updates reinforce safety and clarity regarding the right turn on red rule. Drivers can legally turn right on red after stopping, if no signs prohibit it and conditions are safe. Awareness of signage and new enforcement policies, especially in urban counties, is essential to avoid penalties and ensure safe roadways for all.
Sources
(https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/transportation/title-21/subtitle-2/section-21-202/)
(https://mocoshow.com/2025/09/04/over-200-no-turn-on-red-signs-added-in-montgomery-county/)
(https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgportalapps/Press_Detail.aspx?Item_ID=47568)
(https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/no-right-on-red-light-laws-montgomery-county-90-one-point-drivers-license-bethesda-friendship-heights-silver-spring-wheaton-germantown-glenmont-twinbrook-white-flint-safe-streets-vision-zero)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/maryland/comments/1fz0hw1/maryland_state_law_about_right_on_red_lights/)
