In 2025, North Dakota has retained its long-standing traffic rule allowing drivers to turn right on a red light after coming to a complete stop, but with some clarifications that drivers must understand to ensure safety and compliance. Knowing the details of this update helps motorists navigate intersections confidently and responsibly.
What is the Right Turn on Red Rule?
The right turn on red rule permits drivers to turn right at a red traffic signal after they have come to a full stop and yielded to all pedestrians and oncoming traffic. This rule is prevalent across the United States and aims to increase traffic flow efficiency while maintaining safety. North Dakota follows this national standard, allowing right turns on red where not prohibited by signage.
Key Requirements for Making a Right Turn on Red in North Dakota
According to the updated 2025 guidance, before making a right turn on red, drivers must:
Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before entering the crosswalk or intersection.
Yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing any adjacent sidewalks or crosswalks.
Yield to oncoming traffic that has the green light and is moving through the intersection.
Check for intersection-specific rules, such as “No Turn on Red” signs that override the general permission.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in traffic citations or accidents.
Clarifications from the 2023 Legislative Update
North Dakota’s 2023 legislative changes (effective in 2025) clarified right-of-way rules at intersections, especially concerning vehicles preparing to turn right or left:
The vehicle that arrives and stops first at the intersection has the right of way.
If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, traditional yielding to oncoming traffic or pedestrians still applies.
This update aims to reduce confusion where multiple vehicles arrive at a four-way stop or light-controlled intersection.
Safety Considerations and Exceptions
Despite the convenience of turning right on red, drivers must exercise caution. Intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic, poor visibility, or complex lane configurations might display a “No Turn on Red” sign for safety reasons.
In some urban areas or school zones within North Dakota, additional restrictions may apply to protect vulnerable road users, such as children and the elderly. Drivers should always observe local signage and traffic control devices.
Benefits of the Right Turn on Red Rule
The right turn on red rule contributes to:
Improved traffic flow, reducing unnecessary waiting times at intersections.
Fuel savings by minimizing idling time.
Lower emissions, benefiting the environment.
Increased flexibility for motorists, particularly in off-peak hours.
By following the rule correctly, drivers in North Dakota help keep intersections moving efficiently without sacrificing safety.
North Dakota continues to allow right turns on red with standard safety conditions in 2025, but the recent legislative clarifications highlight the importance of yielding properly and understanding who has the right of way at intersections. Drivers must come to a complete stop, yield to pedestrians and oncoming vehicles, and respect “No Turn on Red” signs. These rules ensure that the right turn on red remains a safe and beneficial part of North Dakota’s traffic system.
Sources
(https://www.reddit.com/r/northdakota/comments/1na1ojy/traffic_rules_right_of_way/)
(https://internationaldriversassociation.com/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/)
(https://www.pringlelaw.net/5-north-dakota-driving-laws-you-should-know/)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red)
