As South Africa enters the festive season, road safety is a top priority. In March 2025, the government introduced new traffic laws targeting reckless driving, drunk driving, and roadworthiness violations. These updates, supported by increased surveillance and expanded enforcement zones, aim to drastically reduce the country’s high road accident rate.
Motorists must now adapt to zero-tolerance alcohol rules, increased demerit penalties, and child safety enforcement, or risk facing heavy fines and even permanent license cancellation.
Drunk Driving Now Carries Zero Tolerance in 2025
Previously, drivers could have a small amount of alcohol in their system. But in 2025, the legal alcohol limit has been completely removed. Under the new rules, any alcohol detected while driving is considered a criminal offense, whether you’re a private or professional driver.
Updated Penalties for Drunk Driving:
- Immediate arrest upon detection of any alcohol
- Suspension or cancellation of the driver’s license
- Fines up to R120,000 or imprisonment depending on severity
Law enforcement has stepped up roadside breath testing, especially during night hours and holiday periods.
Demerit Points System Now Fully Active
The AARTO (Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offenses) system is now active across all provinces. Drivers will receive demerit points for each offense committed. When the limit is reached, consequences are immediate.
Demerit Point Rules:
- Each serious violation adds 1–6 points
- Accumulating 15 points results in a three-month license suspension
- Three suspensions within a specified period will lead to permanent license revocation
Monitoring your demerit points regularly is essential. This can be done through online platforms or via the RTMC mobile app.
Public Transport & Heavy Vehicles Face Stricter Oversight
Taxi drivers, bus operators, and truck drivers are now subject to increased inspections and enforcement checks. With public safety in mind, authorities are focusing on overloading, reckless driving, and unroadworthy vehicles.
Penalties Include:
- Fines for overloading, lack of safety belts, and reckless maneuvers
- Suspension of operating licenses for repeat offenders
- Vehicle impoundment if found unfit or illegally operated
More mobile traffic units and festive season checkpoints will be deployed nationwide.
Speed Camera Zones Expanded with Higher Fines
The government has installed new speed enforcement cameras in accident-prone areas and urban corridors. Fines have also increased across all speeding categories, especially for repeat offenders.
New Speeding Fine Structure for 2025:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine (Rands) |
|---|---|
| 10–20 km/h | R750 |
| 20–40 km/h | R2,000 |
| 40+ km/h | Court summons & suspension |
Repeat violations may also result in court appearances and added demerit points.
Seat Belt & Child Safety Rules Strengthened
New rules make it mandatory for children under three years old to be placed in approved child car seats, while all other passengers must wear seat belts, regardless of seating position.
Fines & Penalties:
- Up to R3,000 for failing to secure children properly
- Additional demerit points added for unbelted passengers
- Vehicle checks during random stops now include car seat inspections
These regulations follow studies showing child car seats significantly reduce injury risks during accidents.
How to Stay Compliant with New Traffic Laws
The best way to avoid penalties under South Africa’s updated traffic rules is through prevention and awareness.
Follow these steps to drive safely and legally:
- Do not drink before driving. Even one drink can result in arrest
- Respect speed limits, especially near schools and intersections
- Use approved child car seats for passengers under three
- Check your license status and demerit points regularly
- Keep your vehicle roadworthy, with valid registration and updated inspections
FAQs
What is the new alcohol limit for drivers in South Africa in 2025?
There is no longer a legal limit. Any amount of alcohol in your system while driving is a criminal offense under the new zero-tolerance rule.
How does the demerit system work now?
Each traffic violation adds demerit points. If you reach 15 points, your license is suspended. After three suspensions, it is permanently revoked.
What happens if I exceed the speed limit by over 40 km/h?
You’ll receive a court summons and your license may be suspended. Additional demerit points will also apply.
Is a car seat required for all children?
Yes, all children under the age of three must be restrained in an approved child car seat.
Can I still drive if I’ve had only one drink?
No. Even trace amounts of alcohol are illegal in 2025 and can lead to arrest and fines up to R120,000.
How many points before I lose my license?
Fifteen demerit points result in an automatic three-month suspension. Accumulating this three times leads to permanent cancellation.
Are speed cameras now active everywhere?
Speed enforcement zones have expanded. New cameras are active in cities and highways, especially in high-accident zones.
Click here to know more.
