Fines SA CEO Barry Berman breaks down the critical importance of the 32-day “early-bird” window under the AARTO system. He explains that motorists who act quickly can secure a 50% discount on their infringements, but warns that missing this deadline triggers a “Courtesy Letter” which adds administrative fees and removes the discount entirely. Berman emphasises that once a fine escalates to an Enforcement Order, the costs spiral and your ability to renew licences or discs on the eNATIS system is immediately revoked.
The interview also highlights the essential need for accurate driver nominations, especially for vehicle owners and fleet managers. Berman explains that under AARTO, demerit points are assigned to the vehicle owner by default unless the correct driver is formally nominated. Fines SA streamlines this process, allowing users to track notices in real-time, secure the maximum possible discounts, and ensure that demerit points are allocated to the person actually behind the wheel. In a landscape where a clean driving record is a prerequisite for employment, proactive management is now a necessity for every South African.
Watch the full interview with Barry Berman here: AARTO: How to protect your licence and your pocket
