Effective June 5, 2025, South Africa has implemented significant changes to its road traffic enforcement through the nationwide rollout of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act. This comprehensive system introduces stricter penalties, a demerit points mechanism, and a centralized digital platform to enhance road safety and driver accountability.
Understanding the AARTO Act
The AARTO Act establishes an administrative framework for managing road traffic offences, aiming to:
- Standardize the adjudication of traffic infringements across all municipalities.
- Implement a demerit points system to penalize repeat offenders.
- Reduce the burden on the judicial system by handling minor offences administratively.
- Enhance road safety by promoting responsible driving behavior.
Previously piloted in Johannesburg and Tshwane, the AARTO system is now operational nationwide, affecting all drivers and vehicle operators.
Key Features of the Updated AARTO System
1. Demerit Points System
Under the new system, drivers accumulate demerit points for traffic violations:
- Each driver starts with zero points.
- Points are added for each infringement, varying based on the severity of the offence.
- Accumulating 15 points results in a three-month licence suspension.
- Points are reduced by one for every three-month period without further infringements.
- After three suspensions, a driver’s licence may be permanently revoked.
This system aims to deter habitual offenders and encourage compliance with traffic laws.
2. Enhanced Penalties
The revised AARTO Act imposes higher fines for various traffic offences:
| Offence | Previous Fine | New Fine | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (21–30 km/h over limit) | R250 | R750 | 2 |
| Jumping a red light | R500 | R1,500 | 3 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | R200 | R1,000 | 2 |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | R250 | R1,250 | 3 |
| Expired vehicle licence disc | R500 | R1,250 | 1 |
| Drunk driving | Court Case | Court | 6 |
| Ignoring a stop sign | R250 | R750 | 2 |
| Reckless or negligent driving | Court Case | Court | 6 |
These increased penalties are designed to reinforce the seriousness of traffic violations and promote safer driving practices.
3. Digital Notification System
AARTO introduces a centralized electronic system for managing traffic offences:
- Infringement notices are delivered via SMS and email, reducing delays associated with traditional mail.
- Drivers can access their infringement records and demerit points online.
- The system facilitates easier payment of fines and submission of appeals.
This digital approach streamlines the enforcement process and enhances transparency.
Implementation Timeline
The rollout of the AARTO system follows a phased approach:
- Phase 1: Implementation in major metropolitan areas, including Johannesburg and Tshwane.
- Phase 2: Extension to additional municipalities by September 2024.
- Phase 3: Inclusion of 167 municipalities by December 2024.
- Phase 4: Full implementation of the demerit points system between April and mid-2025.
This structured rollout ensures that all regions are adequately prepared for the new enforcement mechanisms.
Responsibilities of Drivers
With the new AARTO regulations in effect, drivers are advised to:
- Regularly check their demerit points and infringement notices online.
- Promptly pay fines to avoid additional penalties.
- Adhere strictly to traffic laws to prevent accumulation of demerit points.
- Stay informed about any updates or changes to traffic regulations.
Proactive compliance will help drivers maintain their licences and contribute to overall road safety.
Conclusion
The nationwide implementation of the AARTO Act marks a significant advancement in South Africa’s efforts to enhance road safety and enforce traffic laws. By understanding the new system and adhering to its regulations, drivers can avoid penalties and contribute to a safer driving environment for all.