Track Day & Racing Licences
Everything you need to know about getting your Motorsport UK competition licence — the process, the costs, and your immediate next steps.
Understanding Motorsport UK Licences
In the UK, non-competitive track days typically only require a valid road driving licence. But to take part in competitive circuit racing, you need a Motorsport UK competition licence.
Most club racing series require a Race Club licence as the starting point. This is the licence most beginners work towards and is the gateway to club and interclub racing across the UK.
Getting licensed involves three core steps: completing your theory preparation, a medical declaration, and a practical ARDS driving assessment. The OMA app covers all the theory you need — for free.
How to Get Your Racing Licence
1. Complete Your Theory
Download the free OMA app and work through structured courses on flag signals, Motorsport UK regulations, race craft, and safety — all the knowledge you'll be assessed on in your ARDS test.
2. Medical Declaration
Complete a Motorsport UK medical declaration form. Most applicants self-declare; some conditions require a GP counter-signature. Full guidance is available on the Motorsport UK website.
3. Pass Your ARDS Test
Book your ARDS (Associates of Racing Drivers Schools) practical assessment at an approved circuit school. Your instructor will evaluate your flag recognition, circuit behaviour, and safe driving ability.
4. Apply for Your Licence
Submit your application to Motorsport UK with your ARDS pass certificate, medical declaration, and annual licence fee. Licences are typically issued within a few working days.
5. Enter Your First Race
With your licence issued, choose a club racing series that suits your budget and ambition, find a car or team, and take to the grid for the first time.
What Is the ARDS Test?
The ARDS (Associates of Racing Drivers Schools) test is the mandatory practical assessment required to obtain a Motorsport UK competition licence. It is conducted at approved ARDS circuit schools across the UK.
During your assessment, an instructor evaluates you on circuit. The test covers:
- Recognition and correct response to all circuit flag signals
- Safe and controlled driving behaviour on a live circuit
- Spatial awareness and correct positioning on track
- A debrief and verbal Q&A with your ARDS instructor
Thorough theory preparation significantly improves your chances of passing first time. The OMA app's courses are designed to cover all ARDS test content directly.
What Does It Cost to Get Licensed?
Theory Preparation
The OMA app's starter courses covering flag signals, regulations, and race craft are completely free to download and use. No subscription required to access the core theory content.
ARDS Practical Test
ARDS test fees vary by circuit school provider. The cost typically includes a short on-circuit session with a qualified ARDS instructor. Check directly with your chosen approved circuit school for current pricing.
Motorsport UK Licence Fee
A Race Club licence requires an annual fee payable to Motorsport UK. Visit motorsportuk.org for current official licence fees and the online application form.
FAQs — Track Day & Racing Licences
What is a track day licence?
In the UK, non-competitive track days generally only require a valid road driving licence. However, to take part in competitive circuit racing you need a Motorsport UK competition licence. The term "track day licence" is often used informally to refer to this competition licence.
Do I need an ARDS test for a track day?
An ARDS test is not required for non-competitive track days. It is only required when applying for a Motorsport UK competition licence to take part in circuit racing events.
How long is a Motorsport UK licence valid for?
Motorsport UK competition licences are issued annually. You renew your licence each year as long as you remain active in motorsport. The renewal process is straightforward once you hold your initial licence.
What personal equipment do I need to start racing?
To compete in circuit racing you typically need a crash helmet meeting current Motorsport UK homologation standards, a fireproof race suit, gloves, and race boots. Some categories also require a HANS device. The OMA app covers all personal equipment requirements in detail — for free.
Can I use the OMA app to prepare for my ARDS test?
Yes — the Online Motorsport Academy app is designed specifically to cover all the theory knowledge assessed in an ARDS practical test, including flag signals, Motorsport UK regulations, race craft, and safety. The core content is completely free to access.