Traffic Fine Reference Number in South Africa: How to Find, Check & Pay

A traffic fine reference number is a unique identifier assigned to each traffic violation. This alphanumeric code is essential for tracking, processing, and managing your specific fine. Finding this reference number is crucial when you need to pay, dispute, or inquire about a traffic fine.

If you've received a traffic fine and are wondering where to locate the reference number, it's typically displayed prominently on the fine notice, usually at the top or in a designated section. The format may vary depending on your location, but it generally follows a specific pattern that helps authorities categorize and identify the violation.

What Is a Traffic Fine Reference Number?

The reference number is a critical identifier printed on your traffic fine notice. It helps authorities and motorists:

Payment Processing

When paying a fine, the reference number ensures your payment is correctly attributed to the specific violation. Without this number, your payment might be misallocated, potentially leading to complications such as additional penalties or legal actions.

Tracking and Inquiries

If you need to make inquiries about your fine or wish to contest it, providing the reference number allows authorities to quickly access the relevant details, facilitating efficient communication and resolution.

Fine Management

For those with multiple fines, reference numbers help distinguish between different violations, making it easier to manage and track the status of each fine separately.

Where to Find Your Traffic Fine Reference Number

1. On the Fine Notice

The reference number is usually located:

• At the top of the notice (Section 56 or 341 fines).
• In a box labeled “Notice Number” or “Reference.”
• For camera fines (e.g., speeding tickets), check the top-right corner or footer.

2. Online Platforms

If you’ve misplaced the notice, retrieve your reference number via:

AARTO Website

1. Visit AARTO’s infringement portal.
2. Enter your ID number and driving license number.
3. View all fines linked to your profile, including reference numbers.

payCity Portal

1. Go to payCity’s traffic fines page.
2. Search by ID number or vehicle registration.
3. Access reference numbers and fine details.

Municipal Websites

• Cape Town: Use the City of Cape Town’s online portal.
• Johannesburg: Visit Joburg Metro Police’s e-services.

Format of Traffic Fine Reference Numbers

The format of traffic fine reference numbers varies by jurisdiction, but they typically follow specific patterns. For example:

Camera Fines

In some areas, camera-generated traffic fines may have reference numbers in formats like "HU/80/XXXXXXX/630", where the X's represent unique identifiers specific to your violation.

Roadside Fines

Fines issued by officers on the road might use formats such as "V51/XXXXXX/630", with a different prefix to distinguish them from camera-generated fines.

How to Use Your Traffic Fine Reference Number

When paying your traffic fine, the reference number must be included to ensure proper processing. Here's how to use it for different payment methods:

1. Paying Fines

Online Payments

When paying through official online portals, the system typically guides you through entering the reference number correctly, often auto-formatting it or allowing you to select from your listed fines.

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) (Kouga Municipality):

Many payment systems limit the length of reference numbers. If your traffic fine reference number exceeds this limit, you may need to modify it according to local guidelines. For example:

• For camera fines with format "HU/80/XXXXXXX/630", use "80XXXXXX63TRAFFICFIN" (removing the HU, last 0, and all forward slashes).
• For roadside fines with format "V51/XXXXXX/630", use "51XXXXXX630TRAFFICFIN" (removing the V and forward slashes).

2. Disputing a Fine

You can dispute or scrap the traffic fine completely. To do so, you must include the traffic fine reference number or attach the ticket to your appeal letter. Include the reference number in:

• AARTO 08 Representation Forms (for Johannesburg/Tshwane).
• Formal appeal letters to your local traffic department.

Whether you're paying a fine, contesting a violation, or simply checking your infringement status, the reference number serves as your key to accessing and managing your traffic fine information.