In Wyoming, drivers are permitted to make a right turn on red after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign explicitly prohibits it. This rule has remained consistent into 2026, with no major changes to the core regulation. The law is codified under Wyoming Statutes § 31-5-222 and § 31-5-403, which govern stop signal compliance at intersections.
Complete Stop Is Mandatory
The most critical requirement for turning right on red in Wyoming is making a full and complete stop before the intersection. Drivers must stop at the nearest of:
Rolling through the intersection without stopping is illegal and can result in a traffic ticket. This requirement applies regardless of how clear the intersection appears.
Yielding Requirements Before Proceeding
After stopping completely, drivers must yield to:
Only when the intersection is clear and it is safe to proceed may the driver complete the right turn. Failure to yield can result in accidents and traffic violations.
When Right Turn on Red Is Prohibited
While Wyoming generally allows right turns on red, there are specific situations when this maneuver is illegal:
Drivers should always scan for signage before attempting the turn.
Left Turns on Red: A Rare Exception
Wyoming also permits left turns on red in one specific scenario: from a one-way street onto another one-way street. This is less commonly known but equally important for drivers navigating urban areas with one-way systems.
Penalties for Violations
Red light and stop sign violations are misdemeanors in Wyoming. Consequences include:
- Fines (most common penalty)
- Potential jail time in extreme cases
- Possible reckless driving conviction if circumstances warrant
- Homicide-by-vehicle charges if a violation results in death
While most violations result in fines alone, the severity increases significantly if injuries or fatalities occur.
2026 Traffic Law Updates in Wyoming
While the right turn on red rule itself hasn’t changed, Wyoming introduced new traffic laws effective January 1, 2026:
- No left lane loafers: Slower traffic must move to the right lane
- Stricter enforcement against running red lights
These updates emphasize Wyoming’s commitment to intersection safety and traffic flow efficiency.
Practical Tips for Drivers
- Always stop first – Even if no one is watching
- Look for signs – Check for “No Turn on Red” postings
- Scan all directions – Check for pedestrians, cyclists, and cross traffic
- Proceed cautiously – When in doubt, wait for green
- Stay informed – Keep up with 2026 traffic law updates
Understanding and following Wyoming’s right turn on red rule helps prevent accidents and keeps roads safe for everyone.
SOURCES :
- https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/wyoming-red-light-stop-sign-tickets.html
- https://www.sixt.com/magazine/tips/driving-tips-wyoming/
