South African motorists could soon benefit from longer validity periods for driver’s licence cards, as the Department of Transport considers extending the renewal period from five to eight years. This development comes alongside the imminent phased rollout of the long-awaited demerit system aimed at tackling recurring traffic violations.

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Speaking during the department’s budget vote presentation, Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa announced that the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) system will officially be rolled out in 69 municipalities from 1 October 2025. This marks Phase 2 of the national implementation plan.

The system, designed to penalise habitual traffic offenders through a points-based demerit system, will be expanded further in Phase 3 by 1 February 2026, when the remaining 144 municipalities are expected to be ready.

“Implementation will be guided by each municipality’s readiness,” Hlengwa stated, confirming that authorities are adopting a measured approach to ensure a smooth transition across the country.

Driving Behaviour Under the Spotlight

The AARTO system is aimed at reducing reckless driving and improving compliance with road laws. Offenders will accumulate demerit points for violations such as speeding, driving under the influence, and using a mobile phone while driving. Accumulating too many points could result in a driver’s licence suspension.

Meanwhile, the department is ramping up road safety campaigns and public education initiatives, recognising that over 80% of road accidents stem from human error. Hlengwa said a behavioural shift among road users is critical to reducing fatalities and injuries on South African roads.

Licence Validity Extension Being Studied

In another move that could ease pressure on drivers, the department is reviewing the current driver’s licence validity period. The validity extension from five to eight years is under consideration following ongoing calls from motorists and civil society groups who have flagged the frequent renewal cycle as unnecessary and costly.

A cost-benefit analysis on the proposal is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of the current financial year.

Backlog Adds Pressure to Reform

This review comes at a time when thousands of motorists are experiencing delays in receiving their renewed licence cards, due to a significant backlog caused by the malfunction of the country’s only licence card printing machine.

If implemented, both the demerit system and the proposed licence validity extension could mark a significant shift in South Africa’s traffic enforcement landscape — one that prioritises efficiency, accountability, and road safety.