In New Jersey, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless there is a sign posted that specifically prohibits it (such as “No Turn on Red”). After stopping, drivers must yield to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians before making the turn.
Key Requirements for Right Turn on Red
- Full Stop: You must come to a complete stop before the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection.
- Yielding: Yield to all pedestrians, bicyclists, and oncoming traffic that have the right of way.
- No Prohibiting Sign: If there is a posted sign stating “No Turn on Red,” you must wait for the green light.
- Proper Signal: Use your turn signal at least 100 feet before making the turn.
- Red Arrow: In New Jersey, a solid red right arrow is treated the same as a regular red light for right turns—you may turn right after stopping and yielding, unless a sign prohibits it. This is different from some other states, where a red arrow always means no turn.
Recent Updates and Clarifications (2025)
- No Major Changes: As of 2025, the fundamental rules for right turn on red in New Jersey remain the same as previous years.
- Emphasis on Pedestrian Safety: There is increased enforcement and public messaging about yielding to pedestrians and cyclists, especially at busy intersections.
- Red Arrow Rule: Confusion persists about red arrows, but New Jersey law continues to allow right turns on a red arrow after a full stop and yielding, unless signage prohibits it.
Improper Right Turn Penalties
- Making a right turn on red without stopping, failing to yield, or turning where prohibited can result in fines ($52–$202) and three points on your license.
Summary Table: Right Turn on Red in New Jersey (2025)
| Situation | Is Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Standard red light, no prohibiting sign | Yes | Full stop, yield to pedestrians/traffic, signal |
| Red light with “No Turn on Red” sign | No | Must wait for green |
| Red right arrow, no prohibiting sign | Yes | Same as standard red light |
| Red right arrow with “No Turn on Red Arrow” | No | Must wait for green arrow |
In 2025, New Jersey drivers may turn right on red (including red arrows) after a complete stop and yielding, unless a sign prohibits the turn. Always prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety, and obey all posted signage to avoid fines and penalties.
Sources:
- https://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/title-39/section-39-4-105/
- https://www.newjerseytrafficlawcenter.com/traffic-laws/improper-turn-at-a-traffic-signal/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://www.reddit.com/r/newjersey/comments/1dynmmh/right_turn_on_red_arrow/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/new-jersey/title-39/section-39-4-123/