From sim racing to a real track

Plenty of people race on a simulator, at home or at a venue. Some of them would like to try a real kart or car next. To race at Motorsport UK events, a driver needs a licence.

Who looks after sim racing

Motorsport UK says it governs real-world motorsport, and that it "does not and will not govern sim racing or any form of racing esports". It says it "does not and will not govern sim racing or any form of racing esports". It runs an Esports Hub, which it says helps new drivers learn what equipment to use and where to race.

The hub has a free level of membership. It also has a section on real-world motorsport.

On to karting

Motorsport UK says competitive racing can start as early as the 6th birthday, in the Bambino class. Its Kart Race Yearbook gives the age groups for each class. It suggests starting at a kart track approved by the National Karting Association.

A driver who wants to race at Motorsport UK club events needs a licence. The first step is its Go Karting starter pack, which includes the cost of the first karting licence. The driver then finds a kart track that is a member of the Association of Racing Kart Schools (ARKS) and takes the ARKS test.

After passing, the driver can apply for a Kart Inter-Club Competition Licence. For a driver under 18, one parent must also apply for an Entrant Kart PG Licence.

On to circuit racing

Motorsport UK suggests going to some race meetings first and talking to competitors in the paddock. The next step is its Go Racing starter pack. To gain a race competition licence, a driver completes a Novice Driver Training Course, run by members of the Association of Racing Driver Schools (ARDS).

For anyone who has never driven on a track, Motorsport UK suggests some track days and basic training first.

Drivers aged 14 to 59 need a vision test before applying, which an optician can do. Drivers aged 60 and over need a doctor's medical report, which includes a vision test. The licence application has to go in within three months of the test or medical.

Taking part without driving

Motorsport UK lists ways to get involved at no cost. A passenger in a Trials driver's car needs a free RS Clubman Licence. Others help out a team, as a mechanic or as an extra pair of hands.

Marshals volunteer to help events run safely. With some experience, a marshal can move on to officiating or scrutineering, which means checking that competing vehicles meet the regulations.

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