Is Right Turn on Red Legal in Arizona? (2026)
Yes — Right Turn on Red is legal in Arizona as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Right turn on red is legal in Arizona after coming to a complete stop and yielding to pedestrians and cross traffic, unless a sign prohibits it at a specific intersection. No significant changes have been made to the right-turn-on-red law.
What the Law Says
Arizona law permits a right turn on a red light after a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other traffic.
— A.R.S. § 28-645
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| General Rule | Legal after complete stop |
| Exceptions & Restrictions | N/A |
| Traffic Violation Penalty | Traffic violation if sign prohibits it at specific intersection. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes have been made to the right-turn-on-red law. Officials have had to debunk false rumors of a ban in early 2024.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement is focused on ensuring a complete stop before turning, and drivers must treat a red arrow as a prohibition against turning.
A common mistake is failing to come to a complete stop before the crosswalk or stop line. There is also widespread confusion from online misinformation suggesting the law has changed.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Arizona. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Right Turn on Red is legal in Arizona. You can turning right on red without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Arizona vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, turning right on red is fully legal in 49 states, restricted in 1, and illegal in 0. Arizona falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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