Abstract In this paper, we use the GPS velocity fields of 1999-2007 and 2009-2013, and the negative dislocation-block model of TDEFNODE to invert fault locking and slip deficit velocity of the Red river fault zone. The results show that the Red river fault zone is dominated by right-lateral strike-slip, with some extension and compression. Before 2008, the average strike-slip rate and dip-slip rate of the Red river fault zone is 3.8±2.5 mm/a and 1.2±2.5 mm/a, the northern and middle segments exhibit tension, and the southern segment exhibits compression. The locking fraction of the northern and middle segments between 0 to 15 km depth are from 0.8 to 0.99, and the slip deficit rate is 4.5 mm/a, for which it is easy to accumulate strain energy quickly. The locking fraction of the southern segment between 0 to 10 km depth is from 0.8 to 0.95, and the slip deficit rate is 4.5 mm/a. After 2008, the fault locking and slip deficit rate in the middle segment decrease, and the fault locking and slip deficit rate in the southern segment increase.