South African RTO Fines List – From 1 June 2025, South Africa will implement a revised set of stricter road traffic penalties under the updated RTO regulations. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) and the Department of Transport have announced significantly increased fines for common violations, including speeding, drunk driving, seatbelt negligence, and more. These changes aim to reduce accidents, enforce responsible driving, and promote road safety across the country.
The new laws are especially critical for motorists who frequently use national and provincial highways. All drivers are urged to review the revised fine structure to avoid steep penalties and potential license suspension.
Why the Fines Are Being Increased
The decision to increase road violation penalties stems from several alarming factors observed in 2024:
- Increase in road fatalities, particularly involving drunk driving and over-speeding.
- Non-compliance with seatbelt and helmet rules.
- Over 60% of rural and township motorists were found violating traffic norms without fear of repercussions.
- Urgent need to align South Africa’s road safety protocols with international standards.
The Department of Transport has emphasized that these new measures are not only punitive but educational – pushing citizens towards a culture of compliance.
Full List of New RTO Fines Applicable From 1 June 2025
Below is the complete list of updated fines for key traffic violations. These will be enforced nationwide across all municipalities:
| Offense | Old Fine (Before June 2025) | New Fine (From June 2025) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (20-40 km/h over limit) | R 500 | R 2,000 | May result in license points added |
| Speeding (40+ km/h over limit) | R 1,000 | R 5,000 | Possible arrest or court summons |
| Drunk driving (BAC > 0.05%) | R 2,500 | R 10,000 | Immediate license suspension |
| Not wearing seatbelt | R 250 | R 1,500 | Applies to all passengers |
| Using cellphone while driving | R 750 | R 3,000 | Includes texting and video calling |
| Driving without a license | R 1,000 | R 4,000 | Vehicle may be impounded |
| Driving unregistered vehicle | R 1,200 | R 4,500 | Court appearance required |
| Skipping red lights | R 1,000 | R 3,500 | High-risk offense |
Note: These fines may vary slightly based on provincial implementation and enforcement levels.
Key Categories Facing Stricter Enforcement
South Africa’s traffic department has highlighted a few major areas where zero-tolerance enforcement will begin from June:
- Alcohol-related violations: Random breathalyser tests will be conducted, especially at night.
- School zone speeding: Fines will be doubled if violations occur near schools or hospitals.
- Heavy goods vehicles: Fines for overloading or reckless driving by truck operators will be increased drastically.
Additional Penalties for Repeat Offenders
| Offense Type | Second Violation Fine | Third Violation Fine | Consequence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drunk Driving | R 15,000 | R 25,000 | 6-month license suspension |
| Speeding (over 40 km/h) | R 8,000 | R 15,000 | License may be revoked |
| Skipping Red Lights | R 5,000 | R 10,000 | Blacklisting possible |
| Driving Without Valid License | R 6,000 | R 12,000 | Vehicle seizure and court trial |
How to Pay Your Traffic Fines
Motorists can check and pay their fines through the official SANRAL payment portal or at local municipal offices. All payments must be made before the due date to avoid blacklisting.
Steps to Pay Your Fine Online:
- Visit the www.sanral.co.za/payfines portal
- Enter your vehicle registration or ID number
- View and confirm fine details
- Pay securely using credit card, debit card, or EFT
Late payments may result in additional surcharges or a court summons.
Tips to Avoid Penalties
- Always wear your seatbelt, even for short drives.
- Never use a mobile phone while the vehicle is in motion.
- Do not exceed the speed limit, especially near residential or school zones.
- Avoid driving if you’ve consumed any alcohol – even within “legal” limits.
- Ensure your vehicle is licensed and roadworthy at all times.
Departmental Contact Information for Fine Queries
For inquiries, payment assistance, or to dispute a traffic fine, contact the below departments:
| Department | Contact Number | Email/Website |
|---|---|---|
| SANRAL Traffic Fines Unit | 0800 726 725 | [email protected] / www.sanral.co.za |
| Gauteng Traffic Department | 011 355 5000 | www.gauteng.gov.za |
| Western Cape Transport | 021 483 2281 | [email protected] |
| KwaZulu-Natal DOT | 033 355 8700 | www.kzntransport.gov.za |
| National Traffic Call Centre | 0861 400 800 | [email protected] |
FAQs of South African RTO Fines List
Q1: Can I be arrested for a traffic fine under the new rules?
A: Yes. Serious violations such as drunk driving or reckless speeding may result in arrest or court summons.
Q2: Are these fines applicable across all provinces?
A: Yes, but some municipalities may have stricter interpretations or slight fee variations.
Q3: What happens if I don’t pay my fine?
A: Non-payment can lead to blacklisting, license suspension, or vehicle seizure.
Q4: How do I check if I have an outstanding fine?
A: Visit www.sanral.co.za/payfines and enter your details to check your fine status.
Conclusion of South African RTO Fines List
South Africa’s updated road traffic fine system, effective 1 June 2025, is a significant step toward safer roads and reduced accidents. With steeper penalties, enhanced enforcement, and digital tracking, drivers are advised to follow all traffic rules carefully. Staying informed and compliant not only saves you from hefty fines but also ensures the safety of all road users.
