Question 1

How many demerit points before my license is suspended?

Accepted Answer

For a regular driver, your license is suspended when you reach 12 demerit points. For professional drivers (Code 10+), the limit is also 12 but the consequences are more severe — you lose your professional driving permit (PrDP) as well.

Question 2

How long does a license suspension last?

Accepted Answer

First suspension: 3 months. Second suspension: 6 months. Third suspension: your license is cancelled and you must re-apply from scratch (learner's license, then driving test again). During suspension, driving is a criminal offence.

Question 3

Do demerit points expire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For every 3 months of no new offences, 1 demerit point is removed from your record. So if you have 6 points and drive cleanly for 18 months, all 6 points will be cleared. But any new offence resets the 3-month clock.

Question 4

Is AARTO active in my area?

Accepted Answer

AARTO is being rolled out nationally in phases. It started in Johannesburg and Tshwane and is expanding to other areas. Check with your local traffic department for the latest status in your municipality.

Question 5

Can I check my demerit points online?

Accepted Answer

Once the system is fully operational, you will be able to check your points on the AARTO website or at a driving licence testing centre. Currently, the online portal is still being developed in some areas.

Question 6

Do I get points for unpaid fines?

Accepted Answer

You get demerit points when you are found guilty of an offence (either by paying the fine, which is an admission of guilt, or by being convicted in court). Unpaid fines that go to warrant do not add points until resolved, but they create other legal problems.

AARTO Demerit Points Simulator

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Related Guides

AARTO Demerit Points: How the System Works

What Happens When You Reach 12 Demerit Points?

How to Reduce Your Demerit Points

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