South Africa’s roads are getting safer with new traffic rules rolling out in 2026. These changes aim to cut down accidents and hold drivers more accountable through tougher enforcement.
Licence Rules Tighten Up
Drivers must now carry a valid driving licence everywhere they go, no exceptions. Expired, suspended, or mismatched category licences lead to steep fines and even court time. Renewal proofs from applications won’t cut it at checkpoints anymore, pushing everyone to stay current.
Harsher Fines for Violations
Speeding, running reds, reckless moves, and drunk driving face bigger penalties this year. Fines have jumped, demerit points pile up faster, and repeat troublemakers risk licence loss right away. This shift targets bad habits province-wide to make streets less deadly.
Zero Tolerance for Impairment
Roadblocks with breathalysers and drug tests are everywhere now, catching more impaired drivers. No more leniency—any alcohol or drugs means big trouble, so plan rides home wisely. Authorities want zero impaired drivers to save lives.
Key Penalties Overview
Here’s a quick look at major fines and points under the 2026 rules:
| Offence | Fine (ZAR) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (minor) | 1,000 | 1 |
| Running red light | 2,000 | 2 |
| Drunk driving | 10,000+ | 6 |
| No valid licence | 5,000 | 3 |
| Phone while driving | 1,500 | 1 |
| No seatbelt | 1,000 | 1 |
Seatbelts and Kids First
Everyone buckles up, front or back, or pays the price. Kids need proper car seats matched to their size and age, with parents footing the bill for slip-ups. These rules cut injury risks in crashes big time.
Pedestrians and Bikes Matter
Drivers yield to walkers at crossings and watch for cyclists closely. Cyclists must follow signals and stay visible too—it’s shared duty. Ignoring this ups fines and points for all involved.
Aarto System Rolls Out
The big news is Aarto, delayed to July or September 2026, bringing a national demerit system. Points build from violations like phone use or speeding, leading to suspensions at 12 points for cars, fewer for trucks. Everyone starts fresh, but unpaid fines escalate fast. Pay within five days for up to 10% off, or face court.
Fine Payment Smart Tips
Use online portals or banks for quick settlements to grab discounts. Ignore notices, and they turn into orders with extra fees. Track points via the Aarto site to avoid surprises.
Staying legal means fewer worries and safer drives for South Africa in 2026.
FAQs
Q1: When does Aarto start?
Full rollout by mid-2026, with points from day one.
Q2: How many points cancel a licence?
12 for light vehicles, 8 for pros.
Q3: Are fines higher now?
Yes, across speeding and DUI cases.
Disclaimer
The content is intended for informational purposes only. You can check the official sources; our aim is to provide accurate information to all users.