Here’s what you need to know about the controversial AARTO system in SA, which comes into effect on Wednesday 1 July 2026. The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences act replaces the existing system for handling traffic fines.
However, the biggest challenge for the AARTO system in SA is how they’re handled in back offices. In three weeks from now, they’ll be handled administratively from a central hub under the AARTO Act, and no longer at a municipal level.
AARTO SYSTEM IN SA
Experts warn that the new AARTO system in SA takes away motorists’ right to challenge a fine/offence in court. Nevertheless, the long-talked-about phase 2 kicks off on 1 July 2026, covering 62 municipalities. A further 151 municipalities follow in phase 3, which is expected sometime between October and December 2026. According to the department, phase 1 of setting up back-office IT infrastructure and nationwide payment systems is done.
Next up is the rollout of the much-maligned driver demerit system. While not yet confirmed, this critical element of the AARTO system in SA sees motorists accumulate points with each offence. Over time, this can lead to licence suspension or cancellation. But it won’t arrive with the 1 July launch. The earliest experts say is a realistic date is nearer April 2027.
WILL THERE BE YET ANOTHER AARTO DELAY?
Unfortunately, the chances are high because the AARTO system in SA has been delayed repeatedly already. It was piloted in Johannesburg and Tshwane for years. The first national launch in December 2025 was pushed back after a readiness assessment found municipalities were unable or unwilling to come on board.
In fact, seven municipalities have already dropped the July rollout and pushed to a later phase. Moreover, the RTIA continues to flag staffing shortages, funding pressures and integration problems with existing municipal systems. So, while the official launch date is drawing nearer, we can’t help but think the real AARTO system in SA is still a long way off …
But what do you think? Will we see AARTO rollout next month? Or will there be an inevitable delay yet again? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below …
