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How to Pay Less for Your Traffic Fine in South Africa (2025)

Published

2 months ago

July 18, 2025

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Yes, You Can Still Get a 50% Discount on Your Fine, But You Need to Move Fast

Got slapped with a traffic fine? Before you sigh and pay the full amount, here’s a little-known fact: you can pay just half if you do it within 32 days. This system is part of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) framework, which is expanding across South Africa in 2025.

It’s not a myth or a once-off promo. Under the AARTO Act, motorists in Joburg, Tshwane, and now several other municipalities are still eligible for a 50% discount, as long as they settle the fine within 32 days of receiving the infringement notice.

Also read: What Are the Most Stolen Car Brands in Joburg? 2025 Update

How It Works

If you’ve received a fine (whether via email, post, or wedged under your windscreen), the following applies:

Pay within 32 days: You get a 50% discount.
Day 33 to 64: The full fine becomes payable, but you can still dispute or nominate a different driver.
After 64 days: You could face an enforcement order, blocked licence renewals, and even legal action.

These timeframes are part of the revised AARTO process, which is expected to go national in December 2025, with demerit points rolling out by September 2026.

Who Qualifies for the Discount?

Not all fines are eligible for the full 50% off. Factors that affect your eligibility include:

The municipality that issued the fine (Johannesburg and Tshwane currently apply AARTO).
The value of the fine and the nature of the offence.
Whether the fine is still in its initial stage or has escalated.
The payment timing has no grace once you’re past the 32-day mark.

Platforms like Fines SA, PayCity, or your local municipal portal let you check fines online and confirm if you qualify.

Can I Dispute a Fine? Absolutely.

If you believe your fine is unfair or incorrect, the law is on your side, but only if you act before the summons stage.

Here’s what makes a fine potentially invalid in 2025:

Expired calibration: Speed-measuring equipment must be calibrated within 12 months by an accredited lab.
Unqualified operator: The officer using the device must hold a valid certificate or licence.
Illegal distance: In South Africa, a speed trap must be at least 300 metres after a speed-limit sign and no more than 500 metres from the recorded incident.
Wrong vehicle details: Incorrect number plate, location, or driver info? That’s grounds for dispute.
Image issues: Camera-based fines must include at least two clear images, showing your vehicle and plate.

To dispute a fine:

Submit a written representation to the relevant traffic department or RTIA.
Include supporting evidence: calibration issues, incorrect info, proof you weren’t driving, or personal circumstances (e.g. emergency).
Do it within 64 days to stop the enforcement order.

Can Fines Be Scrapped? Sometimes, Yes.

In cases of proven error or hardship, fines may be scrapped or reduced. Some drivers have successfully motivated for cancellation due to:

Not being the driver or owner at the time.
Unemployment or inability to pay (proof required).
Medical emergencies or other exceptional situations.

The traffic department or court decides if the fine should stand or be dismissed.

What Happens If You Ignore a Fine?

You risk a warrant of arrest if you skip court dates.
Your licence renewal may be blocked.
Fines can escalate into legal fees or even imprisonment, depending on the severity and response.

Don’t ignore that envelope or notification; whether you pay or dispute, take action early.

What’s New in 2025?

Nationwide AARTO launch is planned for December 2025.
Demerit point system will start in September 2026.
More municipalities are joining the AARTO system, meaning more drivers can access discounts but also face stricter enforcement.

If you’re in Joburg or neighbouring areas like Midrand, Soweto, or Randburg, assume AARTO applies to you. Check your fines weekly if you drive often or use busy routes.

Quick Checklist: How to Pay Less or Dispute a Fine in 2025

Pay within 32 days for a 50% discount
Check if the fine includes proper calibration info and legal distances
Dispute if the photo or info is invalid
Avoid ignoring fines past 64 days
Keep an eye on updates as AARTO rolls out across SA