Montana’s traffic rules regarding right turns on red (RTOR) remain largely unchanged heading into 2025, but it’s important to clarify the law and note any broader trends affecting driving regulations.
Right Turn on Red in Montana (2025 Update)
Legal Status and Requirements
- General Rule: Montana, like most U.S. states, allows drivers to make a right turn at a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop, provided the way is clear of oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- Stop Requirement: Drivers must stop at the stop line or before the crosswalk or intersection if there is no marked stop line. They must remain stopped until it is safe to proceed.
- Yield to Others: After stopping, drivers must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles and pedestrians lawfully using the intersection.
- Exceptions: If a “No Turn on Red” sign is posted at the intersection, right turns on red are prohibited.
Montana Law in Detail
According to Montana law (Title 61, Chapter 8, Section 61-8-207), unless a traffic control device prohibits it, drivers facing a steady circular red signal may cautiously enter the intersection to turn right after stopping. They must yield to vehicles and pedestrians in the intersection or approaching so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard.
Left Turn on Red
Montana also permits a left turn on a red light, but only under very specific circumstances: from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all traffic and pedestrians.
Broader Trends and Considerations
- National Shifts: Some cities and jurisdictions across the U.S. are reconsidering or restricting right turns on red due to concerns about pedestrian and cyclist safety. However, as of 2025, Montana has not implemented any statewide bans or major restrictions beyond those already in place.
- Digital Driver’s Licenses: Starting in September 2025, Montana will introduce digital driver’s licenses, which may affect how drivers interact with law enforcement at traffic stops, but this does not change the underlying right turn on red rules.
Sources:
- https://k99hits.com/montana-heres-the-one-time-you-can-legally-turn-left-on-red/
- https://zutobi.com/us/driver-guides/traffic-lights
- https://internationaldriversassociation.com/it/blog/right-turn-red-laws-usa/
- https://codes.findlaw.com/mt/title-61-motor-vehicles/mt-code-ann-sect-61-8-207/
