The long-anticipated driving licence demerit system will begin rolling out on 1 October 2025 in 69 municipalities, according to Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa . The remaining municipalities will follow from 1 February 2026.
The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Aarto Act introduces a points-based system aimed at improving road safety. Motorists will start with zero demerit points and accumulate them when fines for traffic violations are paid MyBroadband .
If a driver exceeds 15 points, their licence will be suspended for three months per point over the limit.
Repeat suspensions may result in licence cancellation, requiring motorists to redo their learner's and driving tests. The department will have a driver rehabilitation programme available to reduce ban periods for frequent offenders.
Common violations like skipping a stop sign or failing to use indicators carry one to two points. More serious offences, such as drunk driving or leaving an accident scene, carry six points and may lead to criminal charges.