Driving in Johannesburg: How the demerit system can cost you your driver's licence

Having a driver’s licence is important, especially when you live in a city like Johannesburg. There is so much to explore and discover, and having your own licence offers the freedom to move around independently. That small card can be the first step towards uncovering some of Johannesburg’s hidden gems, even in areas with poor public transport. 

However, obtaining a driver’s licence also means understanding road signs and recognising the importance of road safety. With Johannesburg being home to millions of people, drivers must pay close attention to their driving behaviour, particularly given the high traffic volumes on the city’s roads.

Driving responsibly comes with many benefits. One of the most important is avoiding unnecessary crashes, often caused by reckless driving. Reckless driving can lead to serious injuries, damage to vehicles, and, in some cases, loss of life. This is why responsible driving is so essential.

Good driving habits also benefit your vehicle and your finances. Driving responsibly can help reduce fuel consumption and lower maintenance costs. In addition, maintaining a good driving record can result in lower insurance premiums, which is especially valuable in times when every cent counts.

Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO)'s Demerit System

One of the major benefits of responsible driving is avoiding penalties imposed by the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO). Under this system, drivers start with zero demerit points. Depending on the offence, a driver can receive between 1 and 6 demerit points. As offences accumulate, so do the demerits. Once a driver reaches 15 points, their licence is suspended. If this suspension occurs three times, it may result in the cancellation of the driver’s licence. 

For Johannesburg residents, understanding how quickly points can accumulate is crucial. Staying within the law and prioritising road safety isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about protecting your ability to drive legally and safely in a busy city environment.

Below are some common offences and the demerit points attached to them:

6 demerits

• Driving without the correct licence for the class of vehicle
• Driving at more than 90 km/h in a 60 km/h zone
• Failing to license a vehicle
• Reckless or negligent driving, including driving under the influence of alcohol
• Refusing or failing to comply with a lawful order given by an authorised officer

5 demerits plus a R3,400 fine

• Driving at 89–90 km/h in a 60 km/h zone

3 demerits plus a R2,000 fine

• Skipping a red traffic light (operator-class vehicles)
• Failing to carry a driving licence card or producing an expired licence card

2 demerits plus a R1,500 fine

• Failing to stop behind the line at a stop street
• Skipping a red traffic light (motorcycles, light motor vehicles, bakkies, etc.)

1 demerit plus a R1,000 fine

• Failing to proceed when a traffic light is green

📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg
🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg
🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg
🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg
🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!