South Africa is preparing for one of the most significant changes to its road traffic laws in decades. The new driving rules that will take effect in 2026 will introduce the long-anticipated demerit points system. This reform forms part of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act, widely known as AARTO. The aim is to reduce accidents, encourage responsible driving, and create a consistent approach to managing road violations across the country.
This article explains the key features of the system, how it will impact motorists, and what drivers should expect once it comes into force.
Why the Change Was Necessary
For years, road safety has been a pressing issue in South Africa. Despite awareness campaigns, reckless driving, speeding, and alcohol-related offences continue to claim thousands of lives annually. The government identified weaknesses in the old system, which relied heavily on criminal courts to process offences. This approach was often slow and inconsistent, making enforcement less effective.
The new rules focus on administration rather than criminal proceedings. By introducing clear penalties and linking them directly to a driver’s licence, the system intends to hold repeat offenders accountable while allowing first-time offenders a fair chance to correct their behaviour.
How the Demerit Points System Works
Every driver will start with a clean slate of zero points. Traffic violations will carry a certain number of points depending on the severity of the offence. Less serious offences, such as minor speeding, may attract one point, while more dangerous actions, such as driving under the influence, can add up to six points.
If a driver accumulates more than 15 points, their licence will be suspended. The suspension lasts for three months for every point above the limit. For example, a driver with 18 points will lose their licence for nine months.
Learners and professional drivers may face slightly stricter thresholds, but the principle remains the same: repeated violations add points, and too many points will remove the right to drive.
Licence Suspension and Cancellation
The suspension system is designed to be progressive. If a driver reaches the maximum points, they lose their licence temporarily. However, if this happens more than twice, the law allows for the licence to be cancelled completely.
Cancellation means the driver must start from the beginning, applying for a learner’s licence and passing all the required tests again after the disqualification period ends. This is one of the strongest deterrents in the new rules, as it not only interrupts a person’s freedom of movement but can also affect careers, especially for those who rely on driving for work.
Reduction of Points and Rehabilitation
The system also offers a way for drivers to improve their record. For every three months that a driver commits no new offences, one point will be removed from their total. This gives responsible drivers the chance to restore a clean driving record over time.
There are also rehabilitation programmes that can reduce up to four points in certain situations. These programmes focus on educating drivers about road safety and correcting bad habits. They provide an opportunity for offenders to reflect on their behaviour and learn safer practices.
Handling Infringement Notices
When a driver receives an infringement notice, there will be several options available before points are applied. These include paying the fine within 32 days at a discounted rate, contesting the notice by making a representation, or nominating another person if they were the actual driver at the time of the offence.
Failure to act on an infringement can lead to additional penalties. Enforcement orders may block a driver from renewing their licence disc or vehicle registration until the matter is resolved. This ensures that drivers cannot ignore fines or violations indefinitely.
Common Offences and Their Consequences
Different offences will carry different penalties. For instance, driving slightly over the speed limit may only carry a small fine and no points, while exceeding the limit by a wide margin could result in six points and a court appearance.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is considered among the most serious offences, with heavy fines, possible imprisonment, and the maximum points applied immediately. Other common violations include disobeying traffic lights, not wearing seatbelts, or driving without a valid licence. Each offence adds to the risk of suspension if repeated.
Impact on Professional and Public Transport Drivers
The rules will have a significant impact on professional drivers, such as taxi, bus, and delivery drivers. Since their livelihoods depend on maintaining a valid licence, they will need to be especially careful to avoid accumulating points. Companies that employ large fleets may also be affected, as suspended drivers can disrupt operations.
This system encourages transport companies to invest in driver training and awareness programmes, ensuring that their employees understand the consequences of violations under AARTO.
Concerns and Criticisms
While many believe the system will improve road safety, some concerns remain. Critics worry about the ability of municipalities to implement the rules fairly and consistently. There are also fears that rural drivers and low-income motorists may struggle with accessing representation options or paying fines on time.
Others argue that corruption in traffic law enforcement could undermine the goals of the system. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient administration will be essential if the system is to succeed.
Preparing for the Changes
Drivers should take the time now to familiarise themselves with the new rules. Understanding how many points each offence carries will help motorists make better decisions on the road. Keeping track of any infringement notices and acting quickly to resolve them will also become increasingly important.
For families, businesses, and professional drivers, staying informed will be critical. Avoiding bad driving habits, respecting traffic laws, and treating the demerit system seriously will not only save money but also protect lives.
Conclusion
The introduction of the demerit points system in 2026 marks a new chapter for road safety in South Africa. It brings with it stricter enforcement, clearer consequences, and opportunities for rehabilitation. By targeting repeat offenders and rewarding responsible driving, the government hopes to create safer roads for everyone.
The coming years will show how effectively the system is implemented, but one thing is certain: drivers will need to adapt. Awareness, caution, and accountability will be the keys to navigating South Africa’s new driving rules.