AARTO: How traffic fines and demerits will affect South African drivers

PRETORIA — 24 August 2025

The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) has detailed South Africa’s new traffic fine system under the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act, set for rollout next year.

President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed the first phase will launch on 1 December 2025 in 69 municipalities. (Presidency statement)

The system expands to 144 remaining municipalities on 1 April 2026, with the driving licence demerit point system going live on 1 September 2026. (RTIA)

Motorists committing offences like speeding or illegal parking will receive AARTO infringement notices, issued directly by officers, mail, or electronically. (RTIA) They then have 32 days to either pay (with a 50% discount if paid within 32 days) or submit a representation. (RTIA)

An independent officer will review representations, and valid reasons could get infringements cancelled. (RTIA) Ignored notices trigger a courtesy letter, adding R60 to fines. (RTIA)

Motorists then have another 32 days before enforcement orders are issued. These orders will: (RTIA)

• Prohibit renewing driving licences, permits, or licence discs
• Block access to the eNatis platform
• Add an extra R60 penalty

With implementation starting in 15 months, the RTIA urges motorists to understand the timelines. Ignoring fines from 2026 may compromise legal driving rights. (RTIA)