Reference · Jurisdiction
When can you turn right on red in California and New York?
California and most of New York State generally allow a right turn on a steady red light after a full stop, subject to signs and yielding. New York City starts from a prohibition and allows it where a sign grants permission. Red arrows have their own rule.
Sources checked
- 01Read the signal
Identify a steady circular red or a red arrow governing your turn. Source 1
- 02Read the signs
A prohibition can override the ordinary turn rule. In New York City, look for explicit permission. Source 2
- 03Stop and yield
Where allowed, stop completely and give way before turning. Source 2
- 04Turn only when safe
Check for pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles in or approaching your path. Source 1
The intersection controls determine whether a right turn is allowed.
A circular red light is a stop in both states
The ordinary California and New York State handbook rules require a full stop. A turn that is allowed by the signal and signs can follow once the driver yields to other road users. At a marked stop line or crosswalk, stop before reaching it. Source 1 Source 2
New York City reverses the usual sign test
Outside New York City, a driver usually looks for a sign or other control that prohibits the turn. In New York City, a driver needs a sign allowing it. NYC311 identifies selected Staten Island intersections with signs granting right-turn permission after stopping. Source 2 Source 3
An arrow controls the movement it points to
A steady red arrow requires the driver to wait before moving in that direction. New York separately explains that a green arrow alongside a circular red authorizes the movement indicated by that green arrow when the intersection is clear and the driver yields as required. Source 1 Source 2
The turn decision includes the crosswalk and the adjoining lane
California’s handbook tells turning drivers to look for pedestrians crossing the street and motorcycles and bicycles alongside the vehicle. New York’s handbook requires yielding to pedestrians and approaching traffic. A driver still needs a safe gap when the sign and signal allow a turn. Source 1 Source 2