AARTO demerit system explained: What every South African driver needs to know

South Africa is about to change the way it handles traffic violations—and it will affect every driver on the road. The government is rolling out a new traffic enforcement system called AARTO, short for Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences. It’s a big deal, and if you drive in South Africa, here’s everything you need to know in plain language.

What Is AARTO, and Why Should I Care?

The AARTO system is a national law that aims to reduce traffic accidents by introducing demerit points for drivers who break the law. Think of it like a scoreboard for your driving record. Every time you break a rule, you get points—but not the good kind.

If you collect too many points, your driving licence will be suspended, and after repeated offences, it could even be cancelled permanently.

This system is being introduced in phases across the country, starting with 69 municipalities from October 2025, expanding to more cities in February 2026, and going fully live in September 2026.

What Happens When You Break a Traffic Law?

Here’s how the process works under AARTO:

1. You receive a notice of infringement, either electronically or via post.

2. You have 32 days to act. You can:

   
   
   

   • Pay the fine with a 50% discount.

   • Dispute it if you believe it’s wrong.

   • Nominate another driver (if someone else was using your vehicle).

   • Redirect the infringement to a rental agency or company.

   • Request to pay in instalments.

     
     
     

Important: If you don’t respond within 32 days, you will face consequences like being unable to renew your licence disc or driving licence.

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South Africa’s AARTO demerit system set to begin — launch date, other details to know as a driver

What Are Demerit Points?

From 1 September 2026, every traffic offence will come with a specific number of demerit points, depending on how serious the offence is.

The more points you accumulate, the higher the risk of your licence being suspended.

• 6 points = suspension for learner drivers

• 15 points = suspension for licensed drivers

• 3 suspensions = licence cancelled

Who Will This Affect the Most?

Private Drivers

You must keep track of your demerit points. A few “small” offences can quickly add up, especially if you’re unaware. Always check your notices and address fines early.

Taxi & Bus Drivers

Operators who carry passengers daily are at higher risk of accumulating points. This could lead to suspended licences and massive income losses.

Truck & Fleet Operators

Fleet companies need to monitor all drivers closely. Repeated offences by staff could ground business operations.

Car Rental Companies

AARTO allows for fines to be redirected to the actual driver, which is critical for rentals. Proper record-keeping is now more important than ever.

Real-Life Example

Imagine Sipho, a 35-year-old driver from Soweto.

• On Monday, Sipho gets caught speeding (3 points).

• Two weeks later, he skips a red light (2 points).

• Then, he uses his phone while driving (1 point).

By month’s end, Sipho has 6 points. If he’s a learner driver, his licence is immediately suspended for 3 months. If he’s fully licensed, he’s only 9 points away from a full suspension. Now imagine doing this as a public transport driver—those stakes are even higher.

Can I Remove Points?

Yes! If you don’t commit any new offences for three months, 1 point is removed from your record. So consistent safe driving can clean your record over time.

But once your licence is suspended, you must serve the 3-month penalty before resuming driving—and repeated suspensions can get your licence permanently revoked.

Legal Implications

• You can contest fines and points by submitting a representation (like an appeal). But you need valid evidence.

• Disputes must be submitted within 32 days.

• If ignored, fines can become enforcement orders, and failure to comply could lead to court action or even criminal charges.

Why Are Some People Concerned?

Groups like OUTA and the Automobile Association (AA) say:

• The system might be used to generate revenue, not improve safety.

• Many municipalities lack the infrastructure to run AARTO properly.

• Technical errors or unfair tickets could hurt innocent drivers.

For example, a person could get a demerit notice months after an offence without having had a chance to defend themselves.

How to Check and Manage Your Points

The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) will provide online tools and apps to:

• View your infringement record

• Track your demerit points

• Submit representations

• Pay fines securely

Final Tips for Drivers

• Check your email and SMS inbox regularly.

• Always respond within 32 days of receiving a fine.

• Drive safely—it’s not just about avoiding fines, but protecting your licence.

• Keep receipts and photos if you believe you were wrongly fined.

• If you’re part of a company or own a fleet, educate your staff and drivers immediately.

The AARTO demerit system isn’t just a new traffic policy—it’s a major reform that affects every South African road user. Whether you’re a casual weekend driver or a professional transport operator, understanding this system is essential.

Drive smart. Know your rights. Keep your licence.