As of 2025, Montana continues to allow drivers to make a right turn at a red light, but there are important rules and exceptions to understand:
- Stop First: You must come to a complete stop at the marked stop line, or before entering the crosswalk or intersection if there is no stop line.
- Yield: After stopping, you must yield the right-of-way to any vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection or close enough to pose an immediate hazard.
- Proceed with Caution: Only proceed with the right turn when it is safe to do so.
- No Turn on Red Signs: If a sign is posted prohibiting a right turn on red at a particular intersection, you must obey the sign and wait for a green light before turning.
Left Turn on Red
Montana also allows a left turn on red, but only from a one-way street onto another one-way street after coming to a complete stop and yielding to traffic and pedestrians.
Exceptions and Safety Reminders
- Red Arrow: If you face a red arrow, you may not turn in the direction of the arrow until it turns green.
- Pedestrian Safety: Always yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk, even if you have stopped and the way appears clear.
- Local Restrictions: Some intersections may have local ordinances or posted signs that further restrict right turns on red. Always check for and obey these signs.
Summary Table: Right Turn on Red in Montana (2025)
| Scenario | Permitted? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on steady red light | Yes | Must stop, yield to traffic/pedestrians |
| Right turn on red where posted “No Turn” | No | Must obey posted signs |
| Right turn on red arrow | No | Prohibited until arrow turns green |
| Left turn on red (one-way to one-way) | Yes | Must stop, yield to traffic/pedestrians |
Key Takeaways
- Right turn on red is legal in Montana after a complete stop and yielding, unless prohibited by a sign.
- Red arrow means no turn until green.
- Left turn on red is allowed only from one-way to one-way streets.
- Always prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety.
These rules are designed to balance traffic flow with safety for all road users. For the most current and detailed information, refer to Montana Code Annotated § 61-8-207 and the latest Montana Driver Manual.
Sources:
- https://catcountry1029.com/cities-across-the-country-are-making-right-turn-on-red-illegal-what-do-you-think/
- https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0610/chapter_0080/part_0020/section_0070/0610-0080-0020-0070.html
- https://mvdmt.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/25-0100M-Montana-Driver-Manual-English.pdf
- https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/montana-red-light-stop-sign-tickets.html