South African New Traffic Laws : Starting May 5, 2025, South African motorists will be subjected to stricter driving laws as the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system goes fully live nationwide. The new traffic enforcement rules bring with them severe penalties, including hefty fines, a points demerit system, and even licence cancellation for repeat offenders. These changes aim to promote safer roads and curb the high accident rates across the country.
AARTO System Implementation : What Changes From May 5?
The AARTO system introduces a national demerit points system, designed to hold drivers more accountable for their actions on the road. The law is being enforced in all provinces from May 5, following a successful pilot in Johannesburg and Tshwane.
- Every driver starts with 0 points on their record.
- Demerit points are added for each road offence.
- Accumulating 13 or more points will lead to the suspension of a driving licence.
- If suspended three times, your licence will be cancelled.
Key Features of the New AARTO Traffic Rules
- Introduction of electronic traffic fines via the AARTO portal.
- Demerit point system for all categories of road users.
- Licence suspensions and cancellations for repeat offenders.
- Drivers can now submit representations online to dispute fines.
- Penalties apply not just to individuals, but also to companies and operators.
- No more discounts for early fine payments under the new system.
Offences That Can Lead to Licence Suspension or Cancellation
| Offence Type | Demerit Points | Fine Amount (ZAR) | Licence Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (21–30km/h over limit) | 2 | R1,000 | Low |
| Speeding (31–40km/h over limit) | 4 | R1,250 | Medium |
| Driving without a seatbelt | 1 | R500 | Low |
| Driving without a licence | 5 | R1,500 | High – Immediate penalty |
| Running a red light | 2 | R1,000 | Medium |
| Driving under the influence | 6 | R2,000 | Very High – Possible arrest |
| Reckless driving | 6 | R2,500 | Very High |
| Using a cellphone while driving | 2 | R1,000 | Medium |
How the Demerit Points System Works
| Points Accrued | Consequence |
|---|---|
| 0–5 Points | No action |
| 6–12 Points | Warning issued – driver must be cautious |
| 13+ Points | Licence suspended for 3 months per point above 12 |
| 3 Suspensions | Licence cancellation – retest and reapply |
Appealing a Fine or Demerit Penalty
If you believe a fine was issued unfairly or want to challenge your demerit points, you can do the following:
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- Visit the official AARTO website: www.aarto.gov.za
- Use the AARTO online portal to submit a representation.
- Submit a formal appeal through the Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA).
- You must lodge your dispute within 32 days of the infringement notice.
- A Representation Officer will review your submission and notify you of the outcome.
How to Check Your Demerit Points Online
Motorists can now conveniently check their point status and fine details through:
- The AARTO online platform: www.aarto.gov.za
- The RTIA mobile app, available on both Android and iOS.
- Local traffic departments with AARTO desks.
You’ll need:
- Your ID number
- Your vehicle registration details
- Your driver’s licence number
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many points until my licence is suspended?
If you accumulate 13 points or more, your licence will be suspended for 3 months per point above 12.
Q2. Can I reduce my demerit points?
Yes. For every 3-month period without further infringements, 1 point is removed from your record.
Q3. Will this apply to all provinces?
Yes. The AARTO system is now enforced nationally, including rural and urban areas.
Q4. What happens after three suspensions?
Your driving licence is cancelled, and you must reapply and retest to get a new one.
Q5. What if I ignore a traffic fine?
Unpaid fines now result in automatic demerit points and licence suspension notices.
Key Departments and Contact Information
| Department/Agency | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| RTIA (Road Traffic Infringement Agency) | 086 122 7861 / [email protected] |
| AARTO Help Centre | 012 999 5200 |
| Department of Transport | 0800 201 478 |
| National Traffic Call Centre | 0861 400 800 |
| Website for All AARTO Services | www.aarto.gov.za |
Tips for Staying Safe and Avoiding Demerit Points
- Obey all posted speed limits and road signage.
- Ensure all vehicle documents are up to date.
- Avoid distractions like cellphones while driving.
- Do not drink and drive under any circumstances.
- Make use of defensive driving courses to improve your road awareness.
How This Will Affect Professional Drivers and Operators
The new rules are also applicable to:
- Taxi and bus drivers
- Courier and logistics vehicles
- Company fleet operators
Employers are urged to:
- Regularly check employee point statuses.
- Provide training on traffic law compliance.
- Set up company policies for driving conduct.
Penalties for Companies and Businesses
| Offence by Company Driver | Company Liability |
|---|---|
| Repeat speeding offences | R5,000 – R10,000 |
| Operating an unroadworthy vehicle | R7,500 |
| Allowing unlicensed driver | R10,000 |
| Not paying fines on time | Vehicle impound or court action |
With the full enforcement of AARTO from May 5, 2025, South Africa’s road safety laws have taken a major step forward. While the system aims to reduce road fatalities and reckless driving, it also places greater responsibility on drivers to remain compliant. Ignorance of the law won’t be a defense — staying informed and cautious is the best way to protect your licence, your wallet, and your life on the road.
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