Minnesota law continues to permit right turns on red in 2025, provided certain conditions are met. If you approach an intersection and the traffic light is red, you are legally allowed to turn right after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a posted sign—either static or electronic—that specifically prohibits turning right on red at that location. This is consistent with long-standing state law and federal guidelines adopted since the late 1970s, aimed originally at improving traffic flow and fuel efficiency.
The procedure requires that a driver must first bring their vehicle to a full stop at the marked stop line, or if there is none, before entering the crosswalk or intersection. After stopping, the driver must yield to all other traffic and pedestrians who have the right of way. If the way is clear, the turn can then be made safely. If there is any indication by signage that “No Turn on Red” is in effect at the intersection, you must remain stopped until the light turns green.
The rule also applies to intersections with multiple right-turn lanes: you may turn right on red from any designated right-turn lane, not just the lane closest to the curb, unless otherwise prohibited by signs or markings. Drivers are required to maintain the appropriate turning arc—those in the curb lane must enter the nearest available lane, while those in the inner right-turn lane should enter the corresponding lane further from the curb. This is designed to avoid conflict and improve safety when multiple vehicles are turning at once.
Importantly, Minnesota law also specifies that drivers turning right on red must be especially diligent to observe and yield to pedestrians and bicyclists in the crosswalk, as well as be aware of other vehicles, including those making legal U-turns or left turns on green arrows, which can create additional risk. Pedestrian safety concern has led to ongoing debates at both the local and national level. Recent safety research and advocacy have highlighted potential risks of right turn on red, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists, and have called for more restrictive policies in urban settings. However, as of July 2025, Minnesota’s base law still allows right turn on red except where specifically forbidden by signage.
It’s important to note that the rule does not oblige drivers to make a right turn on red; it merely permits the maneuver. Drivers are allowed to wait for a green signal if they feel that a right turn on red cannot be completed safely, even if there is no sign prohibiting it. No driver should feel pressured by surrounding traffic to risk an unsafe turn. The same general logic applies for left turns from a one-way street onto another one-way street under red, which Minnesota law also permits, provided the necessary stop and yield conditions are followed.
Understanding the right turn on red rule in Minnesota in 2025 means knowing that the practice remains legally permitted statewide unless a posted sign dictates otherwise. Safe execution requires a complete stop, yielding to all pedestrian and traffic right-of-way, proper lane adherence, and a clear judgment that the maneuver can be performed without endangering anyone. Pedestrian safety remains at the forefront of ongoing policy discussions, but for now, the foundational rules remain unchanged.
Sources
[1] https://www.startribune.com/where-there-are-double-right-turn-lanes-can-i-turn-right-on-a-red-light/601230280
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
[3] https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/169.06
[4] https://www.knowyourrights.com/blog/minnesota-traffic-laws-frequently-asked-questions/
[5] https://www.knowyourrights.com/blog/the-complete-guide-to-minnesota-right-of-way-l-1/
