Regulatory sign · MUTCD R10-11
No Turn On Red
You may not turn while the signal is red, even after stopping. The usual right-on-red rule does not apply here.
- Shape
- Vertical rectangle
- Color
- White background, black letters (some versions show a red circle)
What to do
Stop at the red light and wait until the signal turns green before making your turn. Then yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk and to oncoming traffic as usual. Do not creep forward into the crosswalk while waiting.
Where you see it
Next to the traffic signal at intersections with heavy pedestrian traffic, poor visibility or unusual layouts.
Test trap
Without this sign, a right turn on red is allowed in most states after a full stop; with it, you must wait for green. Note that in New York City right on red is prohibited everywhere unless a sign permits it.
Memory tip: Red means wait here — no sneaking around the corner on red.
Practice question
At an intersection with a NO TURN ON RED sign, when your light is red you must:
- Turn right after a full stop
- Wait for a green light before turning
- Turn only if no cars are coming
- Turn only right, never left
Answer: B. The usual right turn on red after stopping is not allowed here; wait for green.
MUTCD sign meanings (as taught in state driver handbooks)