South African motorists — if you’re hitting the road in 2025, you’ll want to pay attention. Starting July 1, 2025, the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act is going fully live nationwide.
This means updated traffic fines, tougher enforcement, and a demerit points system that could get your driver’s license suspended or even cancelled if you’re not careful.
From steeper speeding penalties to fines for everyday mistakes like not wearing a seatbelt, these new rules aim to crack down on reckless driving and improve road safety. Let’s break down exactly what’s changing and how it affects you.
Overview
The AARTO Act isn’t new, but it’s finally going fully operational across South Africa from July 2025. This legal framework manages how traffic offences are handled, introducing an electronic penalty system tied to a demerit points setup.
Why should you care? Because now, every fine you get will add points to your driving record. And if you rack up enough points, you could lose your license. It applies to all drivers — private, public, and commercial.
Key features of the 2025 rollout:
- Fines linked to a national online system
- Demerit points for each offence
- License suspension after 12 points
- Full enforcement by RTIA and traffic departments
Fines
Here’s a look at some of the key AARTO fines you’ll want to avoid in 2025. Take note of the amounts and how many points they’ll cost you.
| Offence | Fine Amount (ZAR) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (10-20km/h over limit) | R1,000 | 2 |
| Speeding (20-30km/h over limit) | R1,500 | 3 |
| Using mobile phone while driving | R1,500 | 1 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | R1,000 | 1 |
| Driving without a valid license | R1,250 | 4 |
| Driving an unregistered vehicle | R1,200 | 2 |
| Failing to stop at a red light | R1,500 | 3 |
| Overloading a goods vehicle | R2,000 | 3 |
As you can see, even a small slip-up like using your phone while driving can start adding up.
Demerits
Here’s how the demerit system works:
- Everyone starts with zero points
- Points are added with each offence
- Reach 12 points, and your license gets suspended
- Three suspensions = permanent license cancellation
- If you go 3 months without any offences, 1 point is deducted
You can easily track your demerit points online through the RTIA portal, so it’s worth checking your status regularly.
Payments
Nobody wants a fine, but if you do get one, paying it on time can save you money. Fines paid within 32 days qualify for a 50% discount. Here’s how you can pay:
- Online at www.aarto.gov.za
- EFT or card at participating banks
- In-person at any traffic department or post office
Always keep a copy of your payment proof and reference number just in case.
Appeals
If you feel a fine was issued unfairly, you have the right to contest it. Here’s how:
- Complete the AARTO 08 representation form
- Submit it via email or directly at an RTIA office
- Include any supporting documents (like dashcam footage or proof of address)
Important: You must lodge your appeal within 32 days of receiving the infringement notice.
With these new rules coming into effect, now’s the time to brush up on your road habits. A simple mistake could cost you both cash and points, and repeated offences might mean losing your license. Stay informed, drive safe, and keep an eye on those demerits.
FAQs
When do new AARTO fines start?
They come into effect across South Africa on July 1, 2025.
How many demerit points suspend a license?
A total of 12 points leads to a license suspension.
Where can I pay my AARTO fines?
You can pay online, at traffic departments, or at post offices.
Can I appeal an unfair fine?
Yes, submit a completed AARTO 08 form within 32 days.
Do fines come with a discount?
Yes, fines paid within 32 days get a 50% discount.
