South African motorists are about to face one of the biggest shake-ups in traffic law in decades. After years of delays, legal wrangling, and uncertainty, the much-debated AARTO traffic fine system is finally set to roll out nationwide in just two months.
While officials are confident, many drivers and municipalities are bracing for hiccups as the system takes effect.
Where the Rollout Starts
On Monday, 1 December 2025, the new AARTO traffic fine system will officially go live in 69 of the country’s largest metros and municipalities.
The second phase follows on 1 April 2026, when another 144 municipalities will adopt the system.
Although it has already been in place on a smaller scale in Pretoria and Johannesburg, the nationwide rollout is being described by FinesSA as “the biggest systemic law change in South Africa’s history.”
How Things Work Right Now
At the moment, fines are issued under the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA), and cases are handled through the lower courts.
This has often allowed drivers to delay or avoid paying.
But the AARTO system changes the game, giving the government tools to act faster and enforce penalties more effectively.
What Happens If You Ignore Fines
The biggest warning for motorists is this: ignoring an AARTO traffic fine will directly impact your licence.
Unpaid fines could result in being blocked from renewing either your driver’s licence or your vehicle licence.
For businesses that manage fleets, this could mean serious disruption if fines aren’t settled on time.
Fines Delivered by Email
Another major change is that fines will now be sent electronically. Here’s how it works:
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First, an infringement notice arrives by e-mail. You’ll get 32 days to pay, with a 50% discount.
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If you miss that deadline, a courtesy e-mail follows. The discount is gone, and an extra admin fee is added. You’ll get another 32 days to pay.
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After that, an enforcement notice is issued. More penalties are added, demerit points applied, and you’ll be blocked from the NaTIS portal, preventing any licence renewals.
The Driver Demerit System
Perhaps the most controversial element is still a year away.
From 1 September 2026, the driver demerit system will finally take effect.
Under this rule, every fine comes with penalty points.
Once a driver racks up 15 points, their licence will be suspended.
This isn’t just about individuals. For companies and fleet managers, AARTO fines and demerit points apply to both the driver and the vehicle owner, creating a much bigger administrative burden.
Will It Make Roads Safer?
The goal of the AARTO rollout is clear: to clamp down on repeat offenders and raise driving standards in South Africa.
But with the sheer scale of the rollout, the real test will be whether municipalities, businesses, and everyday motorists can keep up with the new system.
For some, it feels like a long overdue step toward safer roads. For others, it’s a bureaucratic headache waiting to happen.