What Is the AARTO Demerit System?

The Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act introduces a points-based system to deter traffic violations by threatening drivers’ privileges. Key principles:

• Zero starting point: All drivers begin with no demerit points.
• Points accumulation: Violations add points (values listed in Schedule 3 of AARTO Regulations).
• 15-point threshold: Exceeding this triggers penalties.

How Points Are Added

Demerit points apply when:

1. A fine is paid (even without admission of guilt).
2. A driver requests to pay fines in installments.
3. A court convicts the driver.
4. An enforcement order is issued.

AARTO Penalties Breakdown:

✔ First Suspension:

• Trigger: Exceeding 15 points
• Penalty: 3 months suspension per excess point
• Example: 17 points = 6 months (17-15=2 excess points × 3 months)

✔ Second Suspension:

• Same calculation as first suspension applies

✔ Third Violation:

• Permanent cancellation of license/operator card

✔ Critical Rules:
⚠ Driving during suspension = Criminal offense
⚠ Cancelled licenses require:

• Completing full ban period
• Restarting from learner's license
• Passing all required tests

✔ Commercial Operators:

• Vehicle cannot be operated during suspension
• Multiple violations may lead to permanent deregistration

Key Rules

• Driving during suspension = Criminal offense
• Commercial vehicles: Suspended operator cards ground fleets
• Cancelled licenses: Must restart from learner’s license after ban

Rehabilitation: Mandatory for drivers cancelled 3+ times ("habitual infringers").