Aarto delay welcomed as motorists get more time to clear fines
Fines SA urges drivers to act now after motorists are granted extra time to clear unpaid fines ahead of the demerit roll-out in July 2026.
The Department of Transport’s decision to delay the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (Aarto) Act to July 1, 2026 has been welcomed.
The Citizen reports that Fines SA, South Africa’s leading online traffic fine payment and management platform, says the new roll-out date gives motorists valuable extra time to settle outstanding fines and familiarise themselves with the new demerit system before penalties take effect.
There were concerns that all parties involved would not be ready by the original roll-out date of December 1.
Aarto delay a blessing
“We view this as a positive step,” says Fines SA CEO Barry Berman.
“The postponement gives South Africans the chance to get their affairs in order. We’ve already seen a significant influx of motorists registering and clearing old fines in anticipation of Aaarto. This delay provides the perfect window for those who haven’t yet acted to avoid future complications.”
Under Aaarto, unpaid fines will be linked to a motorist’s or business’ vehicle licence and registration number, making it impossible to renew or register vehicles until all fines are settled. This could lead to operational disruptions for businesses and administrative hurdles for individuals once the system goes live.
Time to settle unpaid fines
“There are still thousands of unpaid fines in the system which will hurt drivers once Aaarto launches unless they act now,” adds Berman.
“Our advice is simple: Don’t wait until 2026. Use this time to clear your fines and stay compliant. Fines SA is ready to assist every step of the way.”
Fines SA continues to enhance its platform to make fine management and payments easier, faster and more transparent. Through its secure online portal, motorists can instantly check, verify and settle fines across multiple municipalities, helping them stay in control before the Aarto system is fully implemented.
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