The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) will introduce contactless payments along the N3 Toll Route, transitioning away from outdated magstripe card payments.
From 1 December 2024, all mainline and ramp toll plazas on the route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng will no longer accept swipe payments on VISA or Mastercard cards.
What This Means for Drivers
In a move to enhance payment security and convenience, N3TC toll plazas will now only accept contactless-enabled debit or credit cards with MasterCard or VISA, as well as smart devices linked to virtual or physical bank cards.
Read | Trac N4 Route to End Swipe Payments at Toll Gates from 1 December 2024
Previously restricted debit cards are now accepted for contactless payments, though fleet, garage, and petrol magstripe cards will still be valid until 1 July 2026, giving businesses time to adjust to the new system.
Where the Change Applies
The following toll plazas will fully adopt contactless payments:
- KwaZulu-Natal: Mooi Mainline Plaza, Mooi South Ramp Plaza, Mooi Treverton Ramp Plaza, Tugela Mainline Plaza, Tugela East Ramp Plaza, Bergville Ramp Plaza
- Free State: Wilge Mainline Plaza
- Gauteng: De Hoek Mainline Plaza
To make payments faster and more secure, this shift to contactless also reduces the risk of fraudulent transactions, as drivers can keep their cards or devices in their possession throughout the process.
Available Payment Options
For smooth, secure travel, N3 Toll Route drivers can choose from the following payment methods:
- Contactless-enabled debit or credit cards (MasterCard or VISA)
- Smart devices (smartphones, smartwatches) with Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay, etc.
- SANRAL tags
- Cash
- Fleet cards (interim acceptance until 2026)
Drivers without a contactless card or device can continue to use cash, SANRAL tags, or fleet cards.
Note that payments made with smart devices may be slightly slower than physical cards. For those looking to save time, SANRAL tags remain the quickest option, eliminating the need to stop for card transactions.
Improved Security and Convenience
This transition to contactless payments supports N3TC’s goals of bolstering security and improving the efficiency of toll payments. With contactless payments, drivers can travel the N3 with fewer delays and greater peace of mind.
Be ready for the change from 1 December 2024 to ensure a hassle-free experience on the N3 Toll Route!
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