AARTO rollout: What you need to know

The Road Traffic Infringement Agency has outlined how traffic fines and penalties will function under the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act.  South Africa is currently preparing for this         controversial law’s phased rollout.  President Ramaphosa recently officially confirmed that the first phase of AARTO will begin on 1 December for the metro areas and 1April for the remaining areas, with the driving licence demerit point system launching on 1 September 2026.

So what will happen from December?  According to RTIA, motorists will receive and AARTO infringement notice when committing traffic offences.  Notices can be issued directly by and officer or delivered via registered mail or electronic communication (yes, SMS Emails Whatsapp—are all  legal and do not ignore them).  Once issued, you will have 32 days to    respond by paying the fine (receiving 50% discount if paid within 32 days) or submitting a presentation if there is a valid reason why the infringement should be cancelled.  These will be revied by and independent officer.  If you ignore the initial infringement, a courtesy letter will follow, adding     another R60 to the fine.  You will have another 32 days to respond before and enforcement order is issued.

This is important to note:  While under an enforcement order, motorists are       prohibited from renewing their driving licence, driving permit, or licence disc.  You will be completely blocked from using the eNatis platform, and of course you will be charged another R60 penalty.

This phased rollout will give drivers some time to adjust, but failure to    respond to fines could directly affect a driver’s ability to stay legally on the road.  Imagine how this could impact your employees who could be ‘grounded’ if they have outstanding fines in their private capacity!

Get into the habit of checking your fines status at least once a month—go to aarto.co.za—it is really easy accessible on their website.  They also have a lot of information on the rollout and what lies ahead.  Be prepared!