New AARTO Rules – From June 5, 2025, motorists in South Africa will be subject to the full enforcement of the updated Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act. These sweeping changes aim to bring uniformity in traffic law enforcement nationwide while dramatically increasing the consequences of disobeying the rules of the road. With the rollout of the demerit system, drivers can now lose their licences, face thousands of rands in fines, or even have their driving rights permanently cancelled. The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA), the body overseeing this initiative, is pushing for a safer and more disciplined driving environment. The AARTO system is no longer a pilot project; it is now the law across all provinces. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a delivery driver, or a long-distance transporter, these changes impact everyone behind the wheel.
What is the New AARTO System?
The AARTO system introduces a national points-based demerit system designed to penalize repeat offenders and encourage more responsible driving behaviour. Each traffic violation is assigned a specific number of demerit points. These points accumulate over time and can lead to the suspension or even permanent cancellation of a driving licence.
Key points of the new system include:
- Every registered driver begins with zero points.
- Each traffic offence adds a certain number of demerit points to your licence.
- Upon reaching 15 demerit points, a driver’s licence will be suspended for 3 months.
- Each point above 15 adds an additional month to the suspension.
- If a licence is suspended three times, it will be cancelled entirely.
- To reinstate a cancelled licence, the driver must reapply for a learner’s licence and complete the driving test process from scratch.
- Professional driving permit (PDP) holders are also affected and risk disqualification.
New Fine Structures and Penalties
Under the revised AARTO regulations, traffic fines across South Africa have been significantly increased and standardized. This means all municipalities will now follow the same fine structure for common violations, eliminating discrepancies between regions. The goal is to promote road safety through stricter financial consequences. Alongside heavier fines, each offence now carries demerit points, making it even more important for drivers to comply with the rules to avoid suspension or cancellation of their driving licence.
Below is a detailed comparison of previous fines and what they now look like post-AARTO:
| Traffic Offence | Old Fine | New Fine (2025) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (21-30 km/h over the limit) | R750 | R1,500 | 2 |
| Speeding (more than 30 km/h) | R1,000 | R2,500 | 3 |
| Driving without a valid licence | R1,250 | R3,500 | 4 |
| Running a red traffic light | R1,000 | R3,000 | 3 |
| Driving an unroadworthy vehicle | R1,500 | R4,000 | 3 |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | R1,000 | R2,500 | 1 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | R250 | R1,000 | 1 |
| Failing to stop for a traffic officer | R1,500 | R4,500 | 4 |
These fines are no longer negotiable, and failure to pay or respond within 32 days can lead to further legal actions, including a warrant of execution against your assets.
How the Licence Suspension Works
Once a driver accumulates 15 demerit points, the consequences are immediate. The system is automated, and the suspension process does not require a court order. Here’s what happens:
- A 15-point threshold triggers a 3-month licence suspension.
- For every point above 15, an extra month is added.
- The driver will be informed via SMS, email, and postal notices.
- After three suspensions, the licence is permanently cancelled.
- Reinstating a cancelled licence means starting over: learner’s test, driving school, and practical test.
Suspended drivers may not legally operate a motor vehicle during the suspension period. Violating the suspension can result in criminal prosecution and additional penalties.
How to Check Demerit Points and Outstanding Fines
The RTIA provides multiple options for checking your demerit status and unpaid fines:
- Visit www.aarto.gov.za and click the “Query My Fine” section.
- Log in with your ID number and driving licence number.
- Use the mobile-friendly platform or visit an RTIA walk-in service outlet.
- Fines and point allocations are updated in real-time.
- Infringement notices will also be sent to registered drivers via SMS and email.
It’s crucial to regularly monitor your status, especially if you rely on your vehicle for work or business. One unnoticed fine can push your points above the threshold.
Disputing a Fine or Nominating Another Driver
If you believe a fine has been issued in error or that you were not the driver at the time of the offence, the AARTO Act allows you to submit a dispute. Here’s how:
- Log in at www.aarto.gov.za and choose the option to “Nominate Driver.”
- Fill in the required details, including the driver’s ID and contact information.
- If you’re disputing a fine, file a written representation, explaining why the fine is invalid.
- Attach relevant supporting documentation (e.g., GPS data, witness statements).
- If rejected, you may appeal to the Road Traffic Infringement Appeals Tribunal.
- You must act within 32 days to avoid the fine becoming enforceable.
Note: Once a fine is enforceable, your licence may accumulate demerit points even if you’re in the process of disputing it, so act quickly.
Payment Methods and Where to Settle Your Fines
Drivers now have multiple channels to pay their fines quickly and securely:
| Payment Method | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Online Payment | Visit www.aarto.gov.za/payments for secure EFT |
| RTIA Centres | Pay by cash or card at designated RTIA outlets |
| Post Office | Selected branches accept AARTO fine payments |
| EasyPay & PayCity | Use retail partners like Pick n Pay and Shoprite |
| Direct Bank Deposit | Details are provided on your fine notice |
Always retain your proof of payment and confirm your demerit point reduction online after settlement.
The full implementation of the AARTO system marks a turning point in how traffic offences are handled in South Africa. With a national demerit system in place, drivers are urged to be vigilant, drive responsibly, and stay up-to-date with their driving records. Ignoring fines or delaying action could now mean far more than just a dent in your wallet—it could mean losing your right to drive altogether.
Departmental Contact Details
For all queries, appeals, or payment issues, contact:
Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA)
Website: www.aarto.gov.za
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 087 285 0500
Walk-in Centres: Available in major cities. Check online for your nearest outlet.
FAQs About the New AARTO Rules
Q: What triggers a licence suspension?
A: Accumulating 15 demerit points or more.
Q: How do I reduce demerit points?
A: Avoid all traffic offences for 3 continuous months to remove 1 point.
Q: Are these rules applicable to learners and PDP holders?
A: Yes, all licence categories are subject to the same demerit system.
Q: Can I still pay my fine after 32 days?
A: Yes, but it may result in an enforcement order and additional penalties.
Q: Can companies nominate drivers for fleet vehicles?
A: Yes, business accounts can manage driver nominations online.