Alaska’s right turn on red rule remains permissive in 2026, allowing turns after a full stop unless prohibited by signs or signals.
Core Rule Explained
Under 13 AAC 03.010, drivers facing a steady circular red light must stop, then may turn right—or left from a one-way street onto another one-way—after yielding to all traffic and pedestrians. This aligns with federal energy conservation mandates since 1974, now in all 50 states. No 2026 statewide changes ban it; proposals in Anchorage failed.
Key Requirements
Come to a complete stop behind the limit line or crosswalk. Yield fully—no proceeding if oncoming vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians have right-of-way. Red arrows override: no turn permitted. Left-on-red applies only one-way to one-way scenarios, a rarity shared with states like Idaho.
Prohibitions and Signs
“No Turn on Red” signs at intersections (common near schools or pedestrians) make it illegal; violations are infractions. Flashing red treats it like a stop sign. Steady yellow warns of red—clear the intersection legally.
ScenarioAllowed?Yield To
Right on circular redYes…