The Department of Transport has officially gazetted new rollout dates for the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act, confirming that the long-delayed national demerit point system will take effect on 1 September 2026.
This marks the most definitive timeline yet for the controversial system, following years of legal challenges, misinformation, and shifting deadlines.
Key Rollout Phases
The implementation of the AARTO system will happen in three major waves:
- 1 December 2025: First rollout in 69 municipalities.
- 1 April 2026: Extension to a further 144 municipalities.
- 1 September 2026: National commencement of the demerit point system for all licensed drivers.
These phases will introduce new regulations covering traffic fines, infringement notices, appeals, and penalties.
Demerit Point System Explained
From 1 September 2026, the driving demerit system will apply across South Africa.
Here’s how it works:
- Learner drivers: Licence suspended after 6 points.
- Fully licensed drivers: Suspension begins at 15 points.
- Third suspension: Licence is cancelled, and the driver must reapply and retake tests.
Each traffic offence will carry a set number of points. Accumulating too many can result in temporary suspension or permanent cancellation of your licence.
Points gradually reduce over time with good behaviour, allowing drivers to improve their record.
How Infringements Will Work
- Motorists will receive electronic infringement notices instead of paper fines.
- There is a 32-day grace period to respond or pay.
- Paying within the initial period qualifies drivers for a 50% discount.
- Failure to respond leads to additional penalties, possible licence demerits, and enforcement action.
Why This Matters
The AARTO system aims to promote safer roads by holding drivers accountable.
However, critics warn it could be misused as a revenue-generating tool if poorly implemented.
The Department of Transport insists that the system will improve law enforcement and streamline the administrative handling of road violations.
A dedicated tribunal is being set up to hear appeals.
What Drivers Should Do Now
- Stay informed: Municipalities will begin educational campaigns ahead of the rollout.
- Keep your driving record clean to avoid starting with points once the system begins.
- Watch for official communications regarding infringement notices or appeals processes.
- Prepare for electronic, rather than paper-based, fine and penalty handling.
The nationwide rollout of AARTO and its demerit point system is now locked into law.
With over a year until full implementation, authorities have committed to using this time for driver education, system testing, and public awareness.
Good idea or will this just create more confusion and problems?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
