South Africa is introducing major highway regulation changes in 2025 to improve road safety. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has rolled out new rules that all drivers, both local and international, must follow. These updates include reduced speed limits, a zero-tolerance alcohol policy, stricter fines, and new safety requirements.
Why SANRAL Introduced the 2025 Highway Rules
The government aims to reduce road accidents and fatalities. Last year, more than 12,500 people lost their lives on South African roads. Many accidents were caused by overspeeding, drunk driving, or ignoring basic traffic rules. Key reasons for the new regulations include:
- Increasing accidents in regions like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
- Rising incidents of drunk driving.
- Aligning road safety standards with international expectations.
- Public demand for stricter enforcement against dangerous driving.
These new rules are designed to protect all road users and ensure safer driving conditions nationwide.
Key Features of the Updated Driving Regulations
Drivers must be aware of the following important changes:
- Speed limits are reduced by 10–20 km/h depending on road type.
- Zero-tolerance for any alcohol in the bloodstream while driving.
- Heavy penalties for using a mobile phone while driving.
- Increased fines and more license points for traffic violations.
- Mandatory safety equipment such as reflective vests and warning triangles.
- Heavy trucks restricted from night driving, and unsafe vehicles face higher penalties.
Detailed Breakdown of New Speed Limits
| 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 Policy
Drivers are no longer allowed to have any alcohol in their system. Random breathalyzer checks will be conducted on highways, and testing vans will be used at major road points. Violations include:
- Immediate license suspension.
- High fines and points added to the license.
- Arrest and court appearances for serious offenses.
Penalties for Violations
| Offence | Old Fine | New 2025 Penalty | Additional Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAC 0.01%–0.05% | R2,000 | R5,000 + 6 points | 24-hour license suspension |
| BAC >0.05% | R3,500 | R7,500 + 10 points | Arrest + Court |
| Refusal to take breathalyser | R1,500 | R5,000 | Immediate detainment |
| Driving while texting | 4 points | R3,000 + 2 points | – |
| Skipping a red light | 5 points | R4,000 + court summons | – |
| Driving without valid license | 6 points | R6,000 | Possible arrest |
| Overloading vehicle | 6 points | R5,000 | Vehicle impound |
Contact Information for Queries
For further information, drivers can contact:
SANRAL Main Office
- Address: 38 Ida Street, Menlo Park, Pretoria 0081
- Phone: 012 844 8000
- Website: www.sanral.co.za
- Email: info@sanral.co.za
Department of Transport
- Phone: 012 309 3000
- Website: www.transport.gov.za
- Email: dot.customercare@transport.gov.za
Final Takeaway
SANRAL’s 2025 highway rules are designed to make South African roads safer. Drivers must follow speed limits, avoid alcohol, maintain proper safety equipment, and respect new penalties. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial to avoid fines, points deductions, or legal issues. Staying informed and prepared will help protect all road users and contribute to safer driving across the country.
