Faster and safer toll payments: South Africa's tap-to-pay rollout by end of 2025

By the end of 2025, South African motorists will experience a significant upgrade in toll plaza efficiency and safety, as tap-to-pay functionality is scheduled for nationwide implementation.

Sanral has announced plans to begin a phased rollout and testing of tap-to-pay terminals at its 30 self-managed toll plazas in October or November, aiming for full operational capability by the year's end. This move is expected to streamline toll payments and enhance the overall travel experience for motorists across the country.

Tap-to-pay was already available at most toll plazas operated by private companies like N3TC and N4TRAC, covering routes such as the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban and the N4 between Pretoria and Komatipoort.

According to the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), the rollout of tap-to-pay is a positive step that will make toll payments faster, safer, and more convenient for motorists.

"The functionality will apparently be rolled out in Q4 for the toll booths operated by Bakwena (N1,N4). We believe it is very necessary and an enhancement that will allow for real-time contactless transactions," Stefanie Fick, Executive Director of the Accountability Division, said.

"Definitely more convenient for motorists and will include card and smart devices payment, and payments with digital wallets like Apple, Google, Samsung and Garmin. It is also faster and provides efficiency and security. Another step toward digital transformation"

Fick added that contactless payments offer significant security benefits compared to traditional card swipes.

"Contactless transactions utilise encrypted chip technology, making it nearly impossible for fraudsters to clone cards. Each transaction generates a unique code, ensuring sensitive information isn’t stored or transmitted in a way that could be compromised".

She also highlighted the convenience factor, especially during busy travel periods. “Tap-to-pay dramatically reduces transaction times, helping motorists move through toll gates more quickly and reducing congestion.”

OUTA also acknowledged that while the rollout is welcome, some motorists may still not have access to contactless payment methods.

"Contactless payments have been introduced a while back, but there are still motorists that may not have the technology. I think SANRAL tried to strike a balance".

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus