AARTO Rule Update – From June 5, 2025, South African motorists will be subjected to a comprehensive change in how traffic violations are handled. The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system is set to be rolled out nationwide, bringing with it a stricter, more automated approach to traffic law enforcement. This includes the implementation of a demerit points system, significantly increased fines for common infractions, and even the risk of licence suspension or cancellation for repeat offenders. The updated system aims to improve road safety, instill accountability among drivers, and ultimately reduce the country’s high rate of road accidents and fatalities.
Key Changes in AARTO Law Effective from June 5
The nationwide implementation of the AARTO Act marks a major shift in how traffic enforcement is conducted across South Africa. Previously only in effect in selected areas like Tshwane and Johannesburg, AARTO is now being extended to every municipality. This new approach shifts the traffic violation process from criminal proceedings to an administrative model.
Here are the key changes every motorist should know:
- Demerit points will now be issued for various traffic infringements.
- Accumulating 12 or more points will result in a 3-month licence suspension.
- Additional points beyond 12 will lead to longer suspension periods.
- Three licence suspensions can result in permanent cancellation.
- Fines for common offences such as speeding, cellphone use, and red light skipping have significantly increased.
- Infringement notices will now be electronically generated and served via SMS or email.
- The appeals process has been revised with shorter time frames to respond.
- Fines and demerit points will be centrally tracked via the RTIA system.
This structured and punitive framework is designed to deter habitual offenders and promote safer driving habits across the country.
Most Common Offences and New Penalties Table
Under the updated AARTO regulations taking effect from June 5, 2025, the penalties for everyday traffic violations have become much stricter. Common offences like speeding, driving without a seatbelt, and using a cellphone while driving now attract higher fines and add demerit points to your driving record. The table below outlines some of the most frequent violations along with their revised fines and associated demerit points, helping drivers understand the consequences of breaking the law under the new system.
| Offence | Old Fine | New Fine (From June 5) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (20km/h over the limit) | R250 | R1,000 | 2 |
| Using cellphone while driving | R500 | R1,500 | 3 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | R200 | R750 | 1 |
| Driving without a valid licence | R1,000 | R2,500 | 4 |
| Failing to stop at a red light | R500 | R1,250 | 2 |
| Driving under the influence | R2,000 | R5,000 | 6 |
| Expired vehicle licence disc | R300 | R1,000 | 2 |
| Illegal operation of public transport | R1,500 | R3,000 | 5 |
These changes demonstrate a clear message from the government: careless or illegal driving behaviour will no longer be tolerated, and repeat offenders will face increasingly severe consequences.
How the Demerit Point System Will Work
The demerit point system lies at the heart of the new AARTO regulations. Under this system, every registered vehicle owner and driver will begin with zero points. When a traffic offence is committed, the driver will receive the relevant number of demerit points as per the offence category.
Important facts about the system:
- Each offence carries a different point value.
- Accumulating 12 points results in the automatic suspension of the driver’s licence for 3 months.
- For every additional point above 12, another 3 months will be added to the suspension period.
- If a driver has their licence suspended three times, it will be permanently cancelled.
- Demerit points are removed at a rate of 1 point for every 3-month period of clean driving.
- A suspended licence does not require re-testing for reinstatement, but a cancelled licence does.
The system applies to both personal and professional drivers, making it imperative for those in the transport industry to be especially cautious.
What Drivers Need to Do to Stay Compliant
Compliance with the AARTO regulations requires a proactive approach from all motorists. Here are some practical steps you should take:
- Regularly check your infringement status and demerit points via the official RTIA website or mobile platform.
- Ensure your personal and vehicle registration details are updated to receive notifications.
- Pay all fines promptly through official payment portals or at accredited municipal offices.
- If you believe a fine was issued in error, dispute it within the 32-day window provided.
- Avoid accumulating points by committing to safer, rule-abiding driving practices.
- If your licence is suspended, complete any required rehabilitation programmes promptly.
By staying informed and acting early, drivers can avoid the financial and legal complications that may arise under the new system.
Why the AARTO Update Matters for Every South African Driver
The enforcement of the AARTO Act from June 5 represents a bold new direction in road safety management for South Africa. With thousands of lives lost annually to preventable traffic accidents, these new rules offer a concrete step toward a safer, more regulated road environment. While some drivers may feel the system is strict, it ultimately rewards responsible driving and punishes negligence.
Motorists who stay informed, follow the rules, and drive safely will benefit from a smoother experience and fewer disruptions. Meanwhile, habitual offenders will finally face consequences appropriate to the risks they pose to others.
The full-scale rollout of the AARTO rules is a wake-up call for all drivers in South Africa. With increased penalties, tighter enforcement, and licence suspensions on the line, it is crucial to adapt to the new system and uphold responsible driving habits. Now is the time to check your records, settle outstanding fines, and understand how the demerit point system works. Your compliance isn’t just a legal requirement—it could save lives.
Departmental Contact Information for Queries
If you have questions or require further clarification regarding the AARTO system, you may contact the following authorities:
- Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA)
- Website: www.aarto.gov.za
- Phone: 086 122 7861
- Email: [email protected]
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 AM – 04:00 PM
- National Department of Transport
- Website: www.transport.gov.za
- Phone: 012 309 3000
- Head Office Address: 159 Struben Street, Pretoria, Gauteng
FAQs About the New AARTO Rules
Q1: What is AARTO and how is it different from the current system?
AARTO stands for Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences. It replaces the criminal court-based system with an administrative one, aiming for faster and more efficient resolution of traffic offences.
Q2: How will I know if I have received a fine or demerit points?
You will receive notifications via SMS, email, or post depending on your registration with the RTIA. Always ensure your contact information is accurate.
Q3: Is it possible to remove demerit points?
Yes, 1 point is removed for every 3-month period in which no further infringements are committed.
Q4: Can my driving licence be permanently revoked?
Yes. If your licence is suspended three times, it will be cancelled, and you will need to reapply and retake the driving test.
Q5: How and where can I pay my traffic fines?
You can pay your fines through the official RTIA portal, the South African Post Office, or any designated traffic department offices.