Attention, South African drivers! New traffic laws are now in effect, and if you’re not careful, you could lose your driving licence! Starting June 5, 2025, the new AARTO rules (Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences) have officially rolled out across the country. These changes will impact every driver, and yes — repeated violations can now suspend or even cancel your licence.
If you drive for work, school, or just to get around — you need to read this now. This guide will help you understand the new system, how points work, and how to protect your licence from being taken away.
🚦 What Are the New AARTO Rules?
The new AARTO system introduces a demerit points system for traffic violations. It’s designed to make roads safer by punishing repeat offenders more strictly. Here’s what you need to know:
- The system went live nationwide on June 5, 2025.
- Every driver starts with zero points.
- For each violation, you get demerit points added to your driving record.
- Reach 15 points and your licence will be suspended for 3 months.
- Three suspensions = licence cancellation.
- If you drive during suspension, it’s a criminal offence.
🚧 Offences That Now Carry Demerit Points
Here are common traffic offences and the points you can get for each:
| Violation | Fine | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (20–30km/h over) | R1,000 | 2 |
| Speeding (30–40km/h over) | R1,250 | 3 |
| Reckless Driving (racing) | R3,500 | 6 |
| Drunk Driving | R5,000 | 6 |
| Ignoring Red Light | R1,000 | 2 |
| Using Phone While Driving | R1,500 | 1 |
| Driving Without Licence | R2,000 | 4 |
| No Seatbelt (driver/passenger) | R500 | 1 |
📉 How Many Points Until You Lose Your Licence?
The system is simple but strict:
- You may accumulate up to 15 points.
- At 16 points, your licence will be suspended for 3 months.
- For each additional point, you add another month to the suspension.
- If you get suspended three times, your licence may be cancelled.
- Once cancelled, you must reapply and retake your driving tests after the penalty period.
🛑 What Happens During a Suspension?
When your licence is suspended:
- You are not allowed to drive at all.
- You must hand in your licence to the traffic department.
- If you’re caught driving, it’s a criminal charge.
🔁 Can You Recover Lost Points?
Yes, you can recover points, but it takes time and effort. Here’s how:
| Method | Points Recovered | Time/Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months with no traffic offences | 1 point | Every 3 months |
| Attending a rehab course | Up to 3 points | Varies by course |
| Winning an appeal | All related points | Case-by-case basis |
📋 Types of Violations – From Minor to Criminal
AARTO groups violations into four categories:
- Minor Offences – No points (e.g., expired disc under 30 days)
- Serious Offences – 1 to 3 points (e.g., slight speeding)
- Major Offences – 4 to 6 points (e.g., drunk driving)
- Criminal Offences – 6+ points + possible court charges (e.g., hit-and-run causing injury)
🧾 Traffic Violation Examples by Category
| Category | Example Violation | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Minor | Driving without insurance | 0 |
| Serious | Speeding 25km/h over the limit | 2 |
| Major | Hit-and-run (no injuries) | 5 |
| Criminal | Hit-and-run (with injury or death) | 6+ + legal action |
🏥 Where to Attend Rehabilitation Courses?
To remove points quickly, drivers can attend accredited rehabilitation programmes. These are available at:
- AARTO-approved driving schools
- Traffic safety institutions
- Online via the AARTO website
Visit www.aarto.gov.za for a full list of approved centres and registration info.
💻 How to Check Your Demerit Points Online
The Department of Transport has launched a new online AARTO portal. You can:
- View your traffic fines
- See your demerit point balance
- Pay penalties
- Get notified of new violations
Visit: AARTO Online Portal
❓ AARTO FAQs – Quick Answers for Drivers
Q1: Will I be told when I get points?
Yes. You will get a notice by registered mail and through the AARTO portal.
Q2: Can I challenge a violation?
Yes. You have 32 days to appeal from the date you receive the notice.
Q3: Does this apply to all provinces?
Yes, the new rules apply nationwide as of June 5, 2025.
Q4: Can companies see their drivers’ points?
Yes, companies can use the AARTO business portal to manage fleet compliance.
Q5: What if my licence gets cancelled?
You’ll need to reapply, retest, and wait for the cancellation period to pass before driving again.
🛡️ Final Words: Protect Your Licence, Protect Lives
The new AARTO rules are here to stay. They’re strict, but they aim to make roads safer for everyone. Don’t take chances — know the rules, drive smart, and stay safe.
Whether you’re a daily commuter, taxi driver, delivery person, or occasional road user — staying informed is now part of responsible driving. Keep your licence clean, monitor your points, and avoid costly mistakes that could put your freedom behind the wheel at risk.