When a fine arrives for something you do not remember, the photograph is the only thing that can settle it. It shows the vehicle, usually the registration, and depending on the equipment and the type of infringement it may show more. Asking to see it is a normal part of the process, not an act of obstruction.
This guide explains when an image exists, how to request it, what it usually shows and what it often does not, and how to use it when deciding whether to pay, nominate another driver or dispute.
Evidence handling differs between issuing authorities and equipment types. TrafficDepartment.co.za is an independent information resource and does not hold fine images. Request them from the authority named on the notice.
When an image exists
Camera enforcement produces an image by definition, which covers speed cameras, red light cameras and average speed systems. A fine issued by an officer at the roadside generally does not, because the officer is the evidence. Parking and municipal infringements vary, and some are photographed while others are recorded by hand.
If you were not stopped at the time, an image almost certainly exists. See camera fines.
How to request it
- Take the notice or reference number from the fine. See notice numbers.
- Identify the issuing authority, since the request goes to them rather than to a national platform.
- Use the authority’s stated route, which may be an online portal, an email address or a counter.
- Ask specifically for the image and any accompanying data, such as the recorded speed and the calibration or certification details of the equipment.
- Note the date of your request, and follow up if nothing arrives.
Some authorities publish images online against the notice number, which is quicker than a formal request. Where they do, that is normally the fastest route.
What the image usually shows
- The vehicle and, in most cases, a readable registration number.
- The date, time and location of the alleged infringement.
- For speed enforcement, the recorded speed and the applicable limit.
- Sometimes a second image or a sequence, particularly for red light enforcement.
What it frequently does not show is the driver. Depending on the camera position, the angle and the conditions, the person behind the wheel may not be identifiable at all. That matters, because it is why the notice goes to the registered owner rather than to a named driver.
What to look for
- The registration. Confirm it is genuinely your vehicle and that no character has been misread.
- The vehicle itself. Check the make, model and colour match, since a misread plate usually shows a different car.
- The location and time. Check they are consistent with where the vehicle actually was.
- The date against ownership. If the vehicle was sold before that date, the issue is the transfer rather than the fine. See selling a car.
- The recorded figures, where a speed is stated, for anything obviously implausible.
Using the image to decide
If the image confirms the fine, your choice is between paying and requesting a reduction where that is available. See paying a fine and reducing a fine.
If it shows someone else was driving, use the nomination route rather than paying, because paying is generally treated as accepting the matter. See nominated driver fines.
If it shows a different vehicle, or the details do not match, that is the basis of a dispute. Raise it formally rather than ignoring the notice. See making a representation.
If no image is available
Not every fine has one, and the absence of an image does not automatically invalidate a fine issued by an officer who stopped you. Where a camera fine is said to exist but no image can be produced, that is worth raising with the authority in writing, and it is worth keeping a record of the exchange.
Related guides
- Traffic fines hub
- Check outstanding fines
- CPA compared with AARTO
- Summons and warrants
- Business and fleet fines
Frequently asked questions
Am I entitled to see the photograph?
Requesting the evidence supporting a fine is a normal part of the process, and authorities have routes for it. How it is provided and how quickly varies, so ask through the channel that authority specifies.
Does the photo show who was driving?
Often not clearly. Camera angle, glare and conditions frequently make the driver unidentifiable, which is precisely why the notice is issued to the registered owner.
Does requesting the image pause the deadline?
Do not assume it does. Note the deadline on the notice and keep track of it while you wait, and ask the authority directly whether your request affects the timeline.
The image is too poor to identify anything. What then?
Say so in writing to the issuing authority and ask what the fine relies on. Keep copies of the correspondence, since it becomes the record if the matter escalates.
Can I use the photo to prove I was not driving?
Sometimes, if the image is clear enough. More often the practical route is the nomination process, which is designed for exactly this and does not depend on image quality.
Can I see the calibration certificate for the camera?
You can ask. Authorities hold certification records for enforcement equipment, and requesting them alongside the image is reasonable. How readily they are provided varies, so make the request in writing and keep a copy.
The image shows my car but I lent it to someone. What now?
That is the standard nomination situation. Identify the driver through the proper route within the applicable period rather than paying, because paying closes the option. See nominated driver fines.