Tennessee’s right turn on red rule for 2025 remains consistent with previous years and is governed by state law. According to Tennessee Code § 55-8-110, drivers are permitted to make a right turn at a red light at any intersection unless there is a sign explicitly prohibiting it, such as a “No Turn on Red” sign.
When making a right turn on red, drivers must first come to a complete stop before reaching the crosswalk or stop line (or before entering the intersection if neither is present). After stopping, the driver must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in the crosswalk and to any oncoming traffic that has the green light. The turn may only be made when it is safe to do so and does not endanger other vehicles or pedestrians lawfully using the intersection.
This rule applies statewide, including in cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, unless a specific intersection is marked with a “No Turn on Red” sign. Municipal or county authorities may post such signs at intersections where right turns on red are deemed unsafe due to traffic or pedestrian considerations.
Tennessee drivers may turn right on red after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic, unless a sign prohibits such a turn. Always be cautious and observant of posted signage and the presence of pedestrians and other vehicles.
Sources
[1] https://codes.findlaw.com/tn/title-55-motor-and-other-vehicles/tn-code-sect-55-8-110/
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/tennessee/title-55/chapter-8/part-1/section-55-8-110/
[3] https://www.drslawfirm.com/tennessee-traffic-laws-7-things-to-know/
[4] https://www.kingsporttn.gov/city-services/police-department/operations_bureau/traffic_unit/safe_driving_tips/
[5] https://www.terry-lawfirm.com/blog/what-does-the-law-require-you-to-do-at-an-intersection-with-flashing-lights/
