Great news for motorists across South Africa. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has announced a significant upgrade to its toll payment system, designed to address the increasing number of fraudulent transactions involving bank cards at toll booths.
The agency took to social media to announce that, effective 1 December 2025, magnetic swipe cards will no longer function at any SANRAL-operated toll plazas. Instead, motorists will now utilise the Tap & Go payment option, powered by EMV contactless technology.
The decision comes after numerous incidents where criminals exploited swipe card technology at toll gates by capturing card information and using it for unauthorised transactions. With the introduction of Tap & Go, motorists can tap their cards or mobile phones without handing them to toll operators, offering stronger security and significantly reducing the risk of card skimming or data theft.
Beyond safety, the new system is also designed to improve efficiency. Card-swiping and cash transactions often cause delays at toll gates, especially during peak holiday traffic. The contactless system enables faster processing, helping to ease congestion and reduce waiting times. For motorists who regularly travel long distances for work or leisure, the upgrade promises a smoother, quicker experience.
The timing of the announcement could not be more relevant as South Africa approaches the festive season - one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Millions of people will soon be hitting the roads to visit family, explore holiday destinations, or return home after a year of work. With higher traffic volumes expected on national highways, the Tap & Go system is poised to play a crucial role in maintaining smooth traffic flow and ensuring secure transactions.
Motorists are advised to ensure their bank cards are enabled for contactless payments. With improved security, faster processing, and a more modern user experience, SANRAL’s new system marks a positive step toward safer and more efficient travel on South Africa’s roads.
RECOMMENDED
🛏️ 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!