Virginia has updated and clarified its traffic regulations for 2025, but the core rules regarding right turns on red remain largely unchanged. Here’s what drivers need to know:
General Rule: Right Turn on Red Is Permitted
- You may make a right turn at a steady red light in Virginia, but only after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the way is clear of pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Yield to pedestrians and cross traffic: Turning vehicles must always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully in the crosswalk and to any other traffic using the intersection.
Exceptions: When You Cannot Turn Right on Red
- Prohibited by Sign: If a sign at the intersection states “No Turn on Red,” you must obey it and wait for a green signal.
- Red Arrow: If the signal is a steady red arrow pointing right, you may not turn right, even after stopping, unless a sign specifically permits it.
How the 2025 Update Affects Drivers
- No blanket ban: Virginia has not followed Washington, D.C.’s 2025 move to broadly ban right turns on red. Right turns on red remain legal in Virginia except where specifically prohibited.
- Signage is key: Some intersections may add or change signage in 2025. Always look for posted signs that may restrict right turns on red at specific locations.
- Driver responsibility: You must always come to a complete stop first, check for all road users—including bicycles and motorcycles—and only proceed when safe.
Summary Table: Right Turn on Red in Virginia (2025)
| Situation | Right Turn on Red Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| No sign, red circular light | Yes | Stop fully, yield to pedestrians/traffic |
| “No Turn on Red” sign posted | No | Must wait for green |
| Steady red arrow (right) | No | Unless a sign permits the turn |
| Pedestrian in crosswalk | No | Must yield until crosswalk is clear |
Key Takeaways for 2025
- Right turn on red is still allowed in Virginia after a full stop, except where signs or red arrows prohibit it.
- Always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles before turning.
- Watch for new or updated signage at intersections as localities may adjust rules at specific locations.
By following these rules, Virginia drivers can safely and legally navigate right turns on red in 2025.
Sources:
- https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/chapter8/section46.2-835/
- https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/3272368/new-laws-take-effect-virginia-maryland-dc-2025/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/nova/comments/1cqhmcl/did_va_law_change_in_regards_to_making_a_right/
- https://phelanpetty.com/blog/can-you-turn-right-on-red-in-virginia-and-other-rules-of-the-road/
- https://merrickbrock.com/right-of-way-rules-in-virginia/