The full implementation of the new AARTO Act is almost here, and as a fleet manager you probably have some questions on what this means for your fleets and your business. This FAQ page is here to put all your concerns to rest and answer all the pressing questions you have!
The new AARTO rules include:
The most common traffic violation is speeding. This is thanks to factors like running late, avoiding traffic and overconfidence on the road.
AARTO officially launched in December 2025 in certain municipalities. Between February and April 2026, the remaining municipalities will be onboarded, and by July of 2026, the demerit system is expected to be fully launched.
The simple answer is no. In South Africa, you can't be forced to pay a traffic fine on the spot at a roadblock.
Some municipalities may offer mobile payment units, known as "fine buses", at these checkpoints, but using them is entirely voluntary. They're there for your convenience, not to pressure you.
The AARTO demerit points system assigns points from 1 to 6 for traffic offences. Drivers start with 0 points. Once a driver hits 15 points, they face a three-month suspension for each point over that limit, with a maximum of two suspensions. A third violation results in licence cancellation. If there are no further offences for three months, the points reset.
Yes and no. Yes, they’ll still need to be paid and won’t be scrapped under the new ARRTO system, but they won’t count towards the demerit points once that part of the new act is in action.
You can check AARTO fines or demerit points through official platforms like the AARTO website, the AARTO Mobile App,Fines SA, or PayCity.
Just sign up and enter your ID or licence number to view details, manage payments, and track your points. These services let you see any outstanding fines and their associated points, often including related documents or images.
Under AARTO, if you have unpaid traffic fines or ignore requests, an Enforcement Order will be issued. This will create a block on the NaTIS system, preventing you from renewing your licence discs, driver’s licences, and operator cards.
Thanks to the AARTO Act, fleet managers in South Africa have a bigger responsibility with regard to compliance. The system shifts legal accountability for traffic violations and demerit points from individuals to companies. With the full rollout of AARTO, fleet managers must go beyond simply paying fines and focus on actively managing driver behaviour and ensuring vehicle compliance.
Cartrack can help fleet managers stay compliant with the new AARTO Act by providing them with:
Driver monitoring systems help ensure AARTO compliance by providing real-time data and accurately identifying drivers for fines. They also give insights into driver behaviour, which can prevent infringements. This support enables employers to manage demerit points and licence suspensions while correctly nominating liable drivers. Ultimately, these systems simplify processes, helping companies avoid penalties.
Yes, AARTO introduces several severe penalties beyond standard fines and demerit points. These include licensing blocks, mandatory driver rehabilitations, seizure of your movable property to settle outstanding fines, operator card suspension and criminal prosecution for serious offences.
