Digital traffic fine platform Fines SA is warning drivers to prepare for stricter unpaid fine penalties, the possibility of losing driving privileges under the new demerit system and a surge in fraudsters circulating fake ghost fines when the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system takes effect on December 1.

The rollout of AARTO marks a national policy shift. The new system will change how every motorist and fleet operator manages traffic fines, the company says.

Under the demerit points system, each fine carries a point that can accumulate quickly and pose a real risk of licence suspension once 15 demerit points are reached.

For businesses, it introduces added compliance burdens from nominating responsible drivers to managing fines across entire fleets, Fines SA says.

“AARTO is not just another piece of legislation, it rewrites the rules of the road. Ignoring or mishandling fines could mean losing your licence or being unable to renew your car registration,” says Fines SA CEO Barry Berman.

Motorists are urged to settle any outstanding fines to prevent unnecessary penalties and avoid being caught out when the new rules take effect.

The rollout coincides with the year-end travel season, which is when roadblocks and compliance checks reach their peaks.

Motorists travelling for the holidays risk heavy penalties if they are unaware of the new system or if they pay fines through unverified channels, he advises.

The rollout will take place in 69 municipalities including Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Further, from April 1, 2026, more municipalities will join the programme, with the full demerit enforcement programme set to begin on September 1, 2026.

Under the new rules, fines not settled within 32 days may lose the 50% early settlement discount, while unpaid fines can block driver’s licence renewals and vehicle ownership transfers.

Fines SA also warns that fraudulent SMSs, WhatsApps and websites are tricking motorists into paying ghost fines, Berman says.