2025 Road Rules in SA -South African drivers, take note — major changes to road rules are coming into effect by July 2025. The Department of Transport has introduced new legislation aimed at improving road safety, reducing accidents, and enhancing accountability among drivers. Whether you’re a private vehicle owner or a commercial driver, these rules affect everyone on the road. Understanding them now can save you from fines, penalties, or even license suspension.
Mandatory Dashcams for Commercial Vehicles
From 1 July 2025, all commercial vehicles — including taxis, delivery vans, and buses — must install operational dashcams as per the new directive by the Department of Transport.
- Applies to vehicles used for transporting goods or passengers for commercial purposes.
- Devices must record both the interior and exterior views.
- Recordings must be stored for a minimum of 14 days.
- Footage must be provided to law enforcement if requested during investigations.
- Penalties for non-compliance start from R5,000.
- Affected drivers must install and register dashcams via the NaTIS portal or at a licensing department.
Why This Matters: Authorities say this will help resolve accident claims faster and reduce insurance fraud.
New Speed Limit Zones Introduced
Several provinces will see new speed limit zones as part of the 2025 amendments to the National Road Traffic Act.
| Zone Type | Old Speed Limit | New Speed Limit | Applies To | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban residential | 60 km/h | 40 km/h | Cities & suburbs | 1 July 2025 |
| School zones | 60 km/h | 30 km/h | 500m radius around schools | 1 June 2025 |
| Rural roads | 100 km/h | 80 km/h | Non-urban, low-density areas | 15 July 2025 |
| Expressways (urban) | 120 km/h | 100 km/h | Inner-city expressways | 1 July 2025 |
| Commercial zones | 60 km/h | 50 km/h | Industrial/business districts | 1 August 2025 |
| Construction areas | Variable | Max 40 km/h | Active construction zones | Immediate |
| Eco-sensitive zones | 100 km/h | 60 km/h | Protected wildlife regions | 1 July 2025 |
Tip: Use apps like SANRAL E-Toll to stay updated on speed limits in your area.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Mobile Phone Use
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has introduced a strict policy banning all hand-held mobile phone usage while driving.
- Hands-free systems must be completely voice-operated.
- No touching, texting, scrolling, or video calls allowed at red lights or in traffic.
- Penalties include a R2,500 fine and 6 demerit points under the AARTO system.
- Second-time offenders may face license suspension for 3 months.
What You Can Do:
- Install Bluetooth systems.
- Enable “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode.
- Use GPS-based apps that give voice instructions.
Compulsory Re-Education for Repeat Offenders
New rules state that drivers who accumulate more than 12 demerit points in a year must undergo a compulsory re-education program.
- The course spans 4 weeks and covers safe driving, laws, and ethics.
- Conducted by approved training centers listed on the RTMC website.
- Failure to complete the program results in license cancellation.
Important: The cost for the course is R1,200 and is non-refundable.
Child Restraint Systems Now Mandatory
Children under the age of 6 must now be placed in approved child restraint systems.
| Child Age | Seat Type Required | Penalty for Non-Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 12 months | Rear-facing infant seat | R1,000 |
| 1 – 3 years | Forward-facing toddler seat | R1,500 |
| 4 – 6 years | Booster seat with belt | R1,500 |
Approved seats must be SABS certified and installed as per manufacturer instructions.
Enhanced Pedestrian Rights in City Zones
As part of the new urban mobility push, pedestrian-first zones are being expanded.
- Vehicles must yield at all marked pedestrian crossings — even without traffic lights.
- Infringements attract fines up to R1,800.
- New crossings will be installed in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg CBDs.
- Traffic officers will monitor compliance via CCTV and on-site patrols.
Updated AARTO Points and Penalty Structure
The AARTO (Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences) system now includes:
| Offence | Demerit Points | Fine (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (1–20 km/h over limit) | 2 | 750 |
| Red light jumping | 3 | 1,250 |
| Illegal U-turn | 2 | 1,000 |
| Driving without seatbelt | 2 | 750 |
| Driving without license | 5 | 2,000 |
| Mobile use while driving | 6 | 2,500 |
| Reckless driving | 7 | Court Summons |
Renewal Window for Older Licenses Reduced
The renewal grace period for expired driver’s licenses is now 30 days, down from 90 days.
- Late renewals will result in an admin fee of R300.
- Licenses can be renewed online via NaTIS (https://online.natis.gov.za) or at DLTCs.
New Smart Number Plates Rolled Out
Smart plates equipped with microchips and QR codes will begin replacing standard plates from October 2025.
- Helps in stolen vehicle recovery.
- Mandatory for all new vehicle registrations.
- Voluntary but encouraged for existing owners.
Learner’s Test Format Now Digital
The learner’s license exam will now be conducted 100% digitally using tablets at testing centers.
- Instant results provided.
- Digital question pool randomized per applicant.
- Candidates can prepare using official RTMC e-learning portal.
FAQs About 2025 Road Rule Changes
Q1: When do these new rules take effect?
Most rules come into effect between June and July 2025, with some already live (e.g., construction zone limits).
Q2: Do the dashcam rules apply to private vehicles?
No. Dashcams are mandatory only for commercial vehicles.
Q3: Where can I check my demerit points?
Visit the AARTO website (www.aarto.gov.za) to log in and view your driving record.
Q4: Can I appeal a traffic fine under the new system?
Yes, you can submit appeals via the RTIA online portal.
Q5: Are the new speed limits permanent?
Yes, these limits are legally enforced and subject to penalties if violated.
Q6: Is there any assistance available for low-income families to buy child car seats?
The Department of Transport is offering a rebate of R500 on SABS-approved seats. Visit www.transport.gov.za for details.
Departmental Contact Information
- Department of Transport SA
Website: www.transport.gov.za
Helpline: 012 309 3000
Email: [email protected] - Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC)
Website: www.rtmc.co.za
Emergency: 0861 400 800 - AARTO Queries
Website: www.aarto.gov.za
RTIA Call Centre: 086 122 7861
With these sweeping updates to South Africa’s road rules in 2025, it’s crucial for all drivers to stay informed and compliant. These laws are designed not to punish but to protect — both drivers and pedestrians. Take action now: update your knowledge, renew your licenses on time, and adopt safe driving habits. Non-compliance could cost you more than just money — it could risk lives. Stay safe and stay legal on the roads.
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