Key Takeaways
- With just 15 points (or 6 for learners) triggering suspension, responsible driving becomes more critical than ever under the new AARTO system launching September 2026.
- The digital record of violations could affect your vehicle insurance premiums, making a clean driving record essential for managing costs.
- Your license can only be suspended twice before permanent cancellation, meaning the consequences of repeated violations are severe and lasting.
South Africa’s roads are set for a major transformation. The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) will start phasing in nationally from 1 December 2025, with demerit points taking effect on 1 September 2026. Here’s how the system will fundamentally change driving in the country and what you need to know to protect your license.
What Is The AARTO Demerit System?
The AARTO demerit points system will come into full effect in September 2026, following a phased rollout starting in December 2025. This system is designed to target habitual traffic offenders by allocating penalty points for various driving infractions.
Think of it as a warning system for drivers. Every driver starts with a clean slate of zero points, but each traffic violation adds points to your record. Accumulate too many points, and you risk losing your driving privileges entirely.
The system operates on a simple principle: the more serious the infringement, the more points you’ll receive. Minor violations might add just one or two points, whilst serious offences can add up to six points to your record.
How Many Points Until Suspension?
The threshold system is straightforward but unforgiving:
- Learner drivers: Can accumulate up to six demerit points without losing driving privileges.
- Fully licensed drivers: Can accumulate up to 15 demerit points without losing their driving privileges.
Once you exceed these limits, your license is suspended for three months for each demerit point over the threshold. This means if you accumulate 18 points as a full license holder, you’ll face a nine-month suspension (3 points over the limit × 3 months = 9 months).
Points Allocation And Reduction
Infringements carry a maximum of five demerit points and offences are allocated a maximum of six demerit points if found guilty in court. The good news is that points don’t stay on your record forever.
Points are reduced by one every three months until they reach zero, provided you don’t commit any additional infractions during this period. This gives responsible drivers the opportunity to clean their record over time.
Common Traffic Violations And Their Consequences
The AARTO system covers a comprehensive range of traffic offences, including:
- Speeding violations.
- Running red lights.
- Reckless or negligent driving.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Using a mobile phone whilst driving.
- Not wearing a seatbelt.
- Driving without a valid license.
- Failing to obey traffic signs.
Each of these violations carries specific demerit points. The more serious or risky the infringement, the more points will be allocated.
The Suspension And Cancellation Process
The system allows for limited second chances. A driver’s license may be suspended twice in the lifetime of its holder. Exceeding the threshold a third time leads to cancellation.
During suspension periods, driving is completely prohibited. Driving a motor vehicle during a disqualification period is a criminal offence that can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to one year or both.
If your license is cancelled after three suspensions, you must start over with a learner’s license once the ban period has lapsed.
Payment Options and Discounts
When you receive an infringement notice, you have several options. Drivers will have the option to resolve infringements within 32 days and benefit from a 50% discount.
Alternative options include:
- Submitting a representation to dispute the fine.
- Nominating another driver who was responsible.
- Paying in installments.
It’s important to note that paying the fine does not prevent demerit points from being added to your record.
Rehabilitation Programmes
For drivers who accumulate significant points, rehabilitation programmes can reduce demerit points by four points if successfully completed. An infringer may only apply for the attendance of an approved rehabilitation programme once in every 12-month period.
Implementation Timeline
The rollout follows a specific schedule:
- December 2025: AARTO will be introduced in 69 municipalities, including major metros like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
- February and April 2026: Expansion to remaining municipalities.
- September 2026: The points demerit system will be activated.
Affect On Car Insurance
The AARTO demerit system will likely affect your Car Insurance. Insurance companies may consider driving records when calculating premiums, and a history of traffic violations typically would result in higher costs.
With the new system creating a permanent digital record of violations, maintaining a clean driving record becomes even more crucial for keeping insurance costs manageable. Many insurers may offer discounts for drivers with clean records, whilst those with multiple violations may face higher premiums or even policy cancellations.
Preparing For The New System
As the implementation date approaches, drivers should take proactive steps:
- Stay informed: Keep up with the latest AARTO developments and implementation updates.
- Review your driving habits: Identify areas where you might be at risk of violations.
- Understand the options: Familiarise yourself with representation and dispute processes.
The AARTO demerit system represents a significant shift in how South Africa handles traffic violations. By understanding the system now, you can adapt your driving behaviour and protect your license when the system goes live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Existing Traffic Fines Count Towards My Demerit Points?
No, demerit points will only be allocated for violations that occur after the system launches in September 2026.
Can I Check My Demerit Points Online?
Yes, once the system is live, you’ll be able to check your points through official AARTO platforms and apps.
What Happens If I’m Caught Driving With A Suspended License?
Driving during a disqualification period is a criminal offence that can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to one year or both.
Can Companies Be Affected By The Demerit System?
Yes, operators and companies can also accumulate demerit points for their vehicles and may face suspension of operator cards.
How Long Do Points Stay On My Record?
Points are reduced by one every three months until they reach zero, provided no additional violations occur.
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