As of February 17, 2025, Minnesota’s right turn on red rule remains largely unchanged from previous years. Here’s what you need to know about the current regulations:
Right Turn on Red in Minnesota
Minnesota allows right turns on red lights, following the general practice across the United States. However, there are specific conditions and rules that drivers must adhere to:
- Complete Stop Required: Drivers must come to a full stop at the red light before making a right turn.
- Clear Intersection: The intersection must be clear of pedestrians and other vehicles before proceeding with the turn.
- Yield to Traffic: Drivers must yield to any pedestrians or vehicles that have the right of way.
- No Turn on Red Signs: If there’s a sign prohibiting right turns on red at an intersection, drivers must obey it and wait for a green light.
Special Considerations
- Red Arrows: A red arrow means stop. Drivers must wait for a green arrow or light before turning.
- Flashing Red Lights: These should be treated like stop signs. Come to a complete stop, yield to traffic and pedestrians, then proceed when safe.
Safety Emphasis
While right turns on red are generally permitted in Minnesota, safety remains the top priority. The Minnesota State Patrol emphasizes that drivers can avoid tickets and crashes by following basic safety rules, including buckling up, driving at safe speeds, paying attention, and never driving under the influence.
No Major Changes for 2025
Unlike some other traffic laws, such as the new lane filtering law for motorcycles set to take effect on July 1, 2025, there have been no significant changes to Minnesota’s right turn on red rule for 2025.
It’s important to note that while Minnesota maintains its right turn on red policy, some cities across the U.S. are reconsidering this rule due to pedestrian safety concerns. For instance, Washington D.C. has approved a ban on right turns on red that will take effect in 2025. However, no such changes have been announced for Minnesota as of the current date.
Drivers in Minnesota should continue to exercise caution and follow the established rules when making right turns on red lights, always prioritizing the safety of all road users.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on_red
- https://internationaldriversassociation.com/no/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
- https://themotherinlaw.net/turning-right-on-red-the-why-and-how/
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/ask-trooper-rules-turn-red-233400799.html
- https://www.reddit.com/r/minnesota/comments/1hstpn3/2025_mn_lane_filtering_law_psa/
