Overview of AARTO’s Phased Rollout

AARTO aims to introduce a standardised administrative procedure for road traffic infringements, rolling out in stages:

• Phase 1: Implementation in 69 metropolitan and local municipalities (initially scheduled for 1 December 2025, now delayed).

• Phase 2: Expansion to 144 additional municipalities (planned for April 2026).

• Phase 3: Introduction of the Points Demerit System and Rehabilitation Programme nationwide (originally set for September 2026).

Why Employers Must Prepare

Delays in AARTO's rollout provide a window for employers to review policies and systems before compliance becomes enforceable across broader regions. Key risks include license suspensions that may affect employee ability to perform driving duties and financial liabilities from fines and demerit points. 

Administrative Procedure Under AARTO

• Infringement notices may be issued either at the time of offence, by post, or electronically as per relevant regulations.

• Employers or company representatives must respond promptly, choosing between paying fines (with a discount if paid early), applying for installment payments, nominating drivers, or submitting formal representations.

• Failure to respond timeously may result in reduced options (e.g., inability to nominate drivers) and enforcement actions like courtesy letters or orders preventing license renewals.​

Action Steps for Employers

1. Implement Monitoring Systems

   • Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of all authorized drivers and their details.

   • Use platforms such as eNaTIS to track fines, notices, and demerit points for every company driver.

   • Automate notifications and reminders for every infringement notice received to prevent missed deadlines.

2. Develop a Comprehensive AARTO Policy

   • Define roles and procedures for receiving and responding to infringement notices.

   • Set clear rules for driver nomination and disclosure of relevant driver information.

   • Plan for temporary incapacity and alternatives if licenses are suspended.

   • Address employee misconduct related to driving offences and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.

   • Educate staff about the impact of demerit points and associated financial risks.

     
     

3. Financial and Operational Preparedness

   • Investigate alternative work arrangements for staff affected by license suspensions.

   • Prepare acknowledgment-of-debt templates for cases where employee liability is triggered.

   • Allocate budgets to cover expected fines, fees, and associated costs.

   • Increase awareness in the workplace and communicate consequences to all stakeholders.​

Strategic Recommendations

• Use the delay to audit existing compliance processes and training programs.

• Regularly update employees on changing regulations and phased implementation progress.

• Coordinate with legal or HR advisors to align company policies with statutory requirements.

Employers who act early will mitigate risk, safeguard business operations, and ensure workforce compliance as AARTO phases expand across South Africa.

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