Turning On a Red Light in Arizona: Important Rules

Published by Rick Turner on

turning right on a red light - red light concept image.

Trying to understand what’s the rules on turning on a red light? Understanding the rules of the road is your responsibility as a driver in order to avoid costly fines and dangerous accidents. It is important to learn the specific driving laws that pertain to the vehicle and state you drive in. Some of these rules include what to do at a red light in an intersection. 

Thankfully, Legacy Driving Academy is here to help on how to make a legal turning on a red light in Arizona. In this short guide, we’ll break down what to do and what not to do when turning right or left at a red light. Afterwards, we will show you how to pass your next road test and how to become a safer driver on the road with our driver’s education courses in Phoenix, AZ. 

Turning Left on a Red Light

Generally speaking, turning left on a red light is illegal in all 50 states. In Arizona, running a red light can incur a fine of up to $250. However, depending on the state, you may be able to make a left turn on red in certain situations. 

For example, in Arizona turning left on red is permitted only if you are turning from a one-way street into another one-way street. This turn is not allowed on any two-way road. Understand that traffic must be flowing in the same direction as the vehicle making the turn, otherwise you would be turning into oncoming traffic. You can only complete this maneuver after coming to a complete stop and waiting for the traffic to clear, just as you would at a stop sign. 

Turning Right on a Red Light

In general, all 50 states in the country allows turning right on a red light, unless prohibited by specific traffic signs or lights. In Arizona, drivers may turn right at red lights after coming to a complete stop and yielding to any oncoming traffic or pedestrians that may be crossing. 

Certain situations may prohibit turning right on red, its important stay aware of your surroundings and pay attention to these signs, such as: 

  • Red Arrow Light – Drivers cannot make a right turn and must remain stopped until the arrow turns green. 
  • No Turn on Red Sign – You can find this sign on the side of the road near intersections, drivers cannot turn right until there is a green light. 
  • Road Obstructions – Pay attention to any roadblocks, cones, or parked vehicles that may prohibit you from turning right until the light turns green.

Become a Safer Driver with Legacy Driving Academy 

If you are looking to get your driver’s license at the MVD, don’t risk failing your test after spending so much time trying to get it. Sign up for drivers’ education lessons with Legacy Driving Academy, our students have a high success rate on their road tests. 

We offer driving classes to the greater metro Phoenix area and provide free pickup and drop off with any package you choose. Please keep in mind that you must have a valid Arizona Instruction Learner’s Permit prior to beginning our course. We have three different packages ranging in price and duration. Our trainers are fully licensed by the State of Arizona with extensive Behind the Wheel experience. Contact us today to learn more!

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