by Cheyenne, Wyoming — The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has issued updated guidance for 2025 on one of the most commonly used traffic maneuvers: the right turn on red. While the rule is widely practiced by drivers across the state, many motorists remain unclear about when it is legal—and when it could result in a ticket.
The 2025 update reaffirms Wyoming’s long-standing policy, while clarifying special circumstances, exceptions, and penalties for violations. Whether you’re a resident driver or simply passing through Wyoming’s highways and city streets, understanding the right turn on red rule is essential for both safety and compliance.
Complete Stop is Required
The most important part of the law is clear: rolling stops are illegal. Drivers must come to a full and complete stop behind the stop line, crosswalk, or intersection before turning right on red.
Stopping fully gives drivers the chance to:
- Check for pedestrians entering or already in the crosswalk.
- Assess oncoming vehicle traffic.
- Look for bicyclists or other potential hazards that may not be immediately visible.
Law enforcement officers across Wyoming have noted that rolling stops remain one of the most common traffic violations at intersections. Aside from being a ticketable offense, failing to stop completely can put pedestrians and other drivers at serious risk.
Yield to Pedestrians and Other Traffic
Even after stopping, drivers are legally required to yield the right of way before turning. That means:
- Giving pedestrians lawful access to cross the street safely.
- Yielding to vehicles that have the green light or are proceeding straight through the intersection.
- Waiting for bicyclists traveling in designated bike lanes or crossing at the intersection.
WYDOT emphasizes that a red light does not mean drivers automatically gain priority after stopping—the intersection must be clear and safe before the turn can be made.
Look for Signs That Prohibit Right on Red
Not every intersection in Wyoming allows right turns on red. Drivers must always check for posted signs, particularly those marked “No Turn on Red.”
These signs are often placed at intersections where turning could interfere with heavy pedestrian activity, high-speed cross traffic, or limited visibility. Ignoring them can result in a fine and points against a driver’s license.
Red Arrow Exception
According to mywaynecountynow, Another key clarification in the 2025 update is the red arrow rule.
- If a traffic light shows a solid red arrow, drivers cannot turn right until the arrow turns green.
- The only exception is if a posted sign explicitly allows turning on a red arrow.
Red arrows are used in busier areas to provide stricter traffic control, especially at intersections with heavy pedestrian crossings or complex traffic patterns.
Special Cases: Left Turn on Red
Wyoming also permits a left turn on red under specific conditions:
- The turn must be from a one-way street onto another one-way street.
- Drivers must come to a complete stop before turning.
- Pedestrians and vehicles with the right of way must be yielded to.
This rule is less common but can help ease traffic in urban areas like Cheyenne, Casper, and Laramie, where one-way street systems exist.
Local Ordinances vs. State Law
While local governments in Wyoming may add ordinances for specific intersections, state law takes precedence. This means the rules for right turns on red are consistent throughout Wyoming, except where a posted sign prohibits it.
In practice, that means a driver traveling from one city to another does not have to memorize different traffic codes—just look for the signage at each intersection.
Read Also: Vermont Traffic Rule 2025 Update: Everything Drivers Need to Know About Right Turns on Red
Penalties for Violating the Rule
Failing to follow right turn on red laws can lead to:
- Traffic citations with fines typically ranging from $100–$200.
- Points on your driving record, which may affect insurance rates.
- Increased liability in the event of a collision caused by an illegal or unsafe turn.
Police officers across Wyoming have indicated that while education is a priority, enforcement has also increased in high-traffic areas to curb dangerous driving habits.
Bottom Line
The 2025 Wyoming traffic update doesn’t radically change the law but makes the requirements clearer:
- Always stop completely at the red light.
- Yield to pedestrians and vehicles before turning.
- Check for “No Turn on Red” signs or red arrows that prohibit turning.
- Remember the one-way street left turn exception.
By following these rules, drivers can stay compliant, avoid costly fines, and—most importantly—keep Wyoming’s roads safer for everyone.
What do you think about Wyoming’s updated traffic rules? Should more states adopt stricter red-light turn policies? Share your thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
