How to Start Circuit Racing
Everything you need to go from complete beginner to your first race — from theory and licensing to your first time on the grid.
From Zero to Racing Driver — Step by Step
1. Download the App
Get the Online Motorsport Academy app for free on iOS or Android. No account required to start — just open it and begin.
2. Pick a Course
Choose from structured courses covering flag signals, safety, race craft, regulations, and more. Work through them at your own pace.
3. Test Your Knowledge
Each module ends with an interactive quiz. Pass to confirm you've understood the material before moving on.
4. Pre-Licence Assessment (On-Track)
Put all your car control theory into practice, with a half day on-track assessment with our professional instructors. You can attempt the Novice Racing Driver Test on your own of course, but we highly advise some tuition first. This will ensure you are 100% ready for your practical and theory, and start your racing career with the best foundation.
5. Preparation for Your First Race Weekend
From scrutineering to signing on, learn exactly what happens at a race weekend so you arrive confident and ready to compete. You need to be in the right mind set to go racing, and have plenty of free headspace. Being 100% prepared makes this a lot easier.
6. Your First Drive
Now you're licensed and ready to race - just getting to this point is a huge achievement. But before the learning really starts, you need something to drive. We've teamed up with lots of teams around the country with drives available to suit you. Classics, modern cars, single seaters, and everything in between, we'll have it covered. Or if you want to build your own race car, we have a course for that too!
Learn at Your Own Pace,
Anywhere
The OMA app is built for mobile from the ground up. Content is available offline once downloaded, so you can study in the paddock, at home, or on the way to a track day — no signal needed.
Progress is saved automatically. Pick up exactly where you left off, whether that's mid-module or halfway through a quiz.
Every course is written by experienced motorsport competitors and instructors, and kept up to date with current Motorsport UK and FIA guidelines.
FAQs — Starting Circuit Racing
What licence do I need to start circuit racing in the UK?
To compete in circuit racing in the UK you need a Motorsport UK competition licence. Most club racing series require a National B licence as a minimum. Obtaining one involves completing a theory preparation course (the OMA app is free), a medical declaration, and a practical ARDS driving assessment at an approved circuit school.
What is the ARDS test?
The ARDS (Associates of Racing Drivers Schools) test is a practical driving assessment conducted at an approved circuit school. It evaluates your flag signal knowledge, safe circuit behaviour, and spatial awareness. Thorough theory preparation via the OMA app significantly improves your chances of passing first time.
How much does it cost to start circuit racing?
The main costs are your ARDS practical test fee (varies by circuit school provider), your annual Motorsport UK licence fee, and any required personal safety equipment — helmet, race suit, gloves, and boots. Theory preparation is completely free through the OMA app. See our licensing guide for a full cost breakdown.
Do I need previous experience to start circuit racing?
No prior circuit experience is required. However, thorough preparation is strongly recommended. The OMA app provides structured courses covering flag signals, safety, race craft, and regulations — everything you need to arrive at your ARDS test confident and well-prepared.
How long does it take to start circuit racing?
From beginning your theory preparation to your first race, the process typically takes a few months — depending on how quickly you work through the OMA courses, arrange your medical declaration, book your ARDS assessment, and find a suitable race entry.