In Ohio in 2026, a right turn on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, as long as no sign or signal at that intersection prohibits it, and you yield to pedestrians and other traffic.
Ohio’s current traffic-signal law also says a steady red arrow means no turn unless a device specifically permits it, while a steady circular red still allows a right turn after stopping unless prohibited.
Core rule
Ohio Revised Code 4511.13 says drivers facing a steady circular red signal may, after stopping, turn right unless a traffic control device forbids it; the same section allows a left turn from one one-way street to another one-way street under the same kind of stop-and-yield rule.
The turn must be made with the same caution required after a stop sign, which means yielding to pedestrians in the crosswalk and vehicles lawfully in the intersection.
Important exceptions
A posted “No Turn on Red” sign overrides the general rule at that intersection. Ohio law also treats a steady red arrow differently: you may not turn on a red arrow unless a traffic control device specifically allows it.
What changed recently
The governing language is still in force in the 2025 version of the Ohio Revised Code used in 2026, so there is no broad statewide ban on right turn on red in Ohio.
Ohio’s malfunctioning-signal rule is separate: if the signal is clearly malfunctioning, drivers must stop, yield, and proceed with ordinary care under section 4511.132.
Practical takeaway
At a typical Ohio intersection, right on red is legal if all of these are true: you fully stop, there is no “No Turn on Red” restriction, the signal is a steady red circle rather than a red arrow, and the way is clear of pedestrians and conflicting traffic.
If the intersection has school-hour restrictions, lane-specific rules, or local signage, those local controls still matter.
Sources:
- https://www.columbusdefensefirm.com/what-is-considered-running-a-red-light-in-ohio/
- https://allowedhere.com/legality/right-turn-on-red/ohio/
