SAIA hosted an industry workshop with the Road Traffic Infringement Authority (RTIA) on 27 August 2026 under the theme: “Leveraging AARTO to Improve Driver Behaviour, Road Safety and Insurance Risk through Responsible Data Collaboration.”

The workshop provided members with an update on the phased implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) framework, the Points Demerit System (PDS), and driver rehabilitation, as well as the implications for motorists and the insurance industry.

RTIA advised that Phase 2 of AARTO commenced on 1 July 2026, thereby extending the administrative framework to 62 issuing authorities. Further implementation is planned for 2027 and is expected to include nationwide coverage, the PDS and driver-rehabilitation programmes.

Understanding the Points Demerit System

Under the PDS, drivers will start with zero points and accumulate demerit points based on the seriousness of finalised traffic infringements or offences. As points accumulate, motorists will move from lower-risk stages to high-risk status as they approach the 15-point threshold.

Once the threshold is exceeded, a driver will be disqualified from driving for three months for each point above the threshold. A licence may be cancelled following a third disqualification, after which the individual would be required to complete the necessary rehabilitation and begin the licensing process again.

The system also rewards improved behaviour. One point may be reduced for every three consecutive months during which no further demerit points are incurred. Eligible motorists may also attend an approved rehabilitation programme, with successful completion allowing for the reduction of four points.

Consumer rights and NaTIS integration

The workshop emphasised the need to ensure motorists understand their rights and responsibilities. Consumers will be able to make representations against disputed infringements and, where applicable, pursue the matter through the AARTO Appeals Tribunal before approaching the courts.

RTIA further explained that AARTO information will be integrated with NaTIS, creating a national view of infringement outcomes, demerit points, and the status of driving licences, professional driving permits, and operator cards. Accurate records, effective dispute mechanisms, and strong data-governance controls will therefore be critical to protecting consumers.

Supporting safer driver behaviour

Human behaviour, including speeding, impaired driving, distraction, fatigue and reckless conduct, remains a major contributor to road crashes. The PDS has the potential to improve road safety by identifying repeated unsafe behaviour, introducing escalating consequences and encouraging motorists to change their behaviour before reaching the suspension threshold.

The effectiveness of the system will depend on consistent enforcement, supported by public education, fair adjudication and accessible rehabilitation. The intention is not only to penalise repeat offenders but also to provide opportunities for corrective intervention and a safe return to lawful driving.

SAIA’s next steps

SAIA will initiate discussions with members on the potential for the insurance industry to obtain controlled access to selected PDS information. SAIA will position and engage on this request with RTIA and RTMC to determine its legal, operational and technical feasibility.

Any potential access framework would need to be purpose-specific, proportionate and compliant with POPIA. It would also require appropriate consumer transparency, data-security controls, mechanisms for correction and dispute resolution, and safeguards against unfair or automatic adverse decisions.

SAIA will further explore opportunities to increase AARTO education and awareness through its consumer-education programmes and member communication channels. Additional priorities include finalising the review of the SAIA–RTIA memorandum of understanding, developing legitimate use cases for the insurance sector, considering a limited proof-of-concept pilot, and exploring support for driver-rehabilitation initiatives.

Through this collaboration, SAIA aims to help strengthen driver accountability, support behavioural change and contribute to reducing road crashes, injuries and fatalities.