SANRAL’s New Highway Rules – South African drivers, take note: major changes are coming to the country’s roads in 2025. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), in collaboration with the Department of Transport, is introducing sweeping reforms aimed at reducing road fatalities, curbing reckless driving, and ensuring a safer highway system. These changes include lower speed limits, a strict zero-tolerance alcohol policy, and heavier fines for traffic violations. Here’s everything you need to know about the new SANRAL highway rules for 2025.
Why SANRAL’s New Highway Rules?
The decision to overhaul South Africa’s highway laws comes in response to rising traffic-related fatalities and injuries. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), over 12,500 road deaths were recorded in 2023 alone. Most of these were due to speeding, drunk driving, and non-compliance with road safety regulations.
Key reasons behind the reform:
- Rising road accident statistics in provinces like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal
- Growing concern over alcohol-related driving offences
- International pressure to align with global safety standards
- Public demand for stricter enforcement to deter reckless driving
Main Highlights of the SANRAL’s New Highway Rules
These changes will impact all drivers across South Africa. Whether you drive daily or occasionally, understanding these updates is crucial.
- Speed limits to be reduced by 10-20 km/h in urban and rural areas
- Zero-tolerance alcohol rule – no detectable alcohol allowed while driving
- Harsher penalties for distracted driving, especially mobile phone use
- Revised fines and demerit point system under AARTO
- Compulsory safety equipment in vehicles (reflective vests, emergency triangles)
- Night-time driving restrictions for heavy-duty commercial trucks
- Higher penalties for unroadworthy vehicles
Updated Speed Limits Across SA Roads
The government is enforcing reduced speed limits nationwide. These limits vary based on road type and environment.
| Road Type | Previous Limit | New 2025 Limit | Penalty for Overspeeding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Residential Roads | 60 km/h | 50 km/h | R1,000 – R2,500 |
| Rural Roads | 100 km/h | 80 km/h | R2,000 – R3,500 |
| Freeways (Urban Areas) | 120 km/h | 100 km/h | R3,000 – R5,000 |
| Freeways (Rural Areas) | 120 km/h | 110 km/h | R2,500 – R4,000 |
| Near Schools | 40 km/h | 30 km/h | R1,500 minimum |
| Construction Zones | 80 km/h | 60 km/h | R2,500 minimum |
| Public Transport Lanes | 100 km/h | 80 km/h | R2,000 – R3,000 |
Zero-Tolerance Alcohol Rule Explained
In a major shift, SANRAL and the Department of Transport have introduced a zero-alcohol limit for all drivers. This means:
- Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) must be 0.00%
- Even trace amounts of alcohol will lead to immediate arrest
- Applies to private, commercial, and public transport drivers
Enforcement will include:
- Random breathalyser checks
- Mobile alcohol testing units on major highways
- Immediate licence suspension and on-the-spot fines
Alcohol Violation Penalty Table
| Offence Type | Old Fine/Penalty | New 2025 Penalty | Additional Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAC between 0.01%–0.05% | R2,000 | R5,000 + 6 points | 24-hour licence suspension |
| BAC over 0.05% | R3,500 | R7,500 + 10 points | Arrest + Court appearance |
| Refusal to take breathalyser | R1,500 | R5,000 | Immediate detainment |
| Second-time alcohol offence | R5,000 | R15,000 + 12 points | 6-month licence suspension |
Other Key Offences & Fines Under AARTO
| Offence | Penalty Points | Fine (R) | Repeat Offence Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving while texting | 4 | 1,500 | R3,000 + additional 2 points |
| Skipping a red traffic light | 5 | 2,000 | R4,000 + court summons |
| Driving without a valid licence | 6 | 3,000 | R6,000 + possible arrest |
| Overloading passenger vehicle | 6 | 2,500 | R5,000 + vehicle impound |
| No seatbelt worn | 2 | 1,000 | R2,000 |
| Reckless overtaking | 5 | 3,000 | R6,000 |
| Expired licence disc | 3 | 1,500 | R3,000 |
FAQs – SANRAL’s New Highway Rules
Q1: When will the new rules come into effect?
A1: The full implementation begins from 1 July 2025 across all provinces.
Q2: Will drivers be notified officially?
A2: Yes, SANRAL is launching a national media campaign with billboards, SMS alerts, and announcements on https://www.sanral.co.za.
Q3: What happens if I get caught with 0.01% BAC?
A3: Under the new zero-tolerance policy, any alcohol in your system will lead to a fine and penalty points.
Q4: How can I check my demerit points status?
A4: You can check your AARTO status via the official RTIA portal at https://www.aarto.gov.za.
Q5: Can fines be paid online?
A5: Yes, fines can be paid securely at https://www.paycity.co.za or via the official SANRAL e-toll platform.
Departmental Contact Information
To ask further questions or clarify rules, reach out directly to:
SANRAL Head Office
Address: 38 Ida Street, Menlo Park, Pretoria, 0081
Phone: 012 844 8000
Website: https://www.sanral.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Department of Transport
Phone: 012 309 3000
Website: https://www.transport.gov.za
Email: [email protected]
Conclusion – SANRAL’s New Highway Rules
These 2025 SANRAL highway reforms are among the strictest in recent South African history. They are designed to create safer, more disciplined driving environments for all road users. Whether you’re a daily commuter or occasional driver, now is the time to adjust your habits, check your licence status, and ensure your vehicle meets all safety standards.
Failure to comply may lead to heavy penalties, licence suspension, or even criminal charges. To stay compliant, monitor SANRAL’s official updates, regularly check your driving record, and ensure timely payment of fines online.
Drive safe, stay alert, and respect the rules – South Africa’s roads depend on it.