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 So
you want to go motor racing?
To go circuit racing, you will need a racing licence, which like all motor
sport licences is issued by the Motor Sports
Association (MSA).
To get the appropriate licence it is compulsory to complete a practical
test called the Association of Racing Drivers School (ARDS) course. It can
be carried out at most of the top race circuits in the country and
involves both a written and track driving test (with an instructor). If
that sounds a bit daunting, then fear not. The written test makes a great
deal of sense and is designed to make sure you understand things like the
racing procedures, what all the marshals' flags mean, and why the Clerk of
the Course should sometimes be called Sir! The track driving part is not
where you try to prove to the instructor that Jenson Button should opt for
early retirement, it is just for you to demonstrate that you can lap a
circuit safely - your speed is not important, you will not be timed.
To register yourself for the ARDS course you must first contact the MSA
for the Go Racing pack. The pack, which can be ordered via the MSA
website, includes a great deal of information and a very useful
introductory video. Also included is a medical form that has to be signed
by a doctor. All race licence applications have to be accompanied by a
medical report and most family GPs are happy to complete these reports
for a fee. The actual cost of the practical part of the ARDS course varies
depending on which circuit you go to, but the total cost of the Go Racing
pack, the track session at the circuit, the medical and your race licence
will set you back about £270. You have to complete the ARDS course only
once, but you will have to renew your MSA licence each year, with a new
medical required every two years.
The minimum age to apply for a race licence is 16 years of age.
When you have obtained a Competition Licence, you will require the
following:
Car with added safety equipment (roll-cage, fire extinguishers,
fireproofing, etc)
Approved crash helmet
Approved flame-resistant overalls
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