As of 2025, Washington State law still allows right turns on red after a complete stop, unless posted signs indicate otherwise. Here’s what drivers need to know about the current rules and proposed changes:
Current Law (Statewide)
Right on Red Is Permitted: Drivers may turn right at a steady red light after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists in the intersection or crosswalk.
Exceptions: If a sign is posted prohibiting right turns on red at a specific intersection, drivers must obey the sign and wait for a green signal.
Red Arrow: The same rules apply to red arrow signals—right turns are allowed after stopping, unless a sign prohibits it.
Proposed and Local Changes
Statewide Restrictions Under Consideration: In 2023 and 2024, Washington lawmakers considered bills that would ban right turns on red within 1,000 feet of sensitive areas like schools, libraries, hospitals, and transit centers. As of mid-2025, these proposals have not become law, but the debate continues due to concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety…