What you need to do to get a racing license

A racing license is issued by your state's motor vehicle department or, in some cases, by a racing organization that sanctions events in your state. The path depends on what kind of racing you want to do — drag racing, road course racing, autocross, or oval track racing all have different requirements. Most states require you to pass a written test about racing rules and safety, pass a vision and medical check, and pay a fee. Some racing organizations also require you to complete a safety course or log practice hours before you can enter a sanctioned event.

The fastest way to start is to contact the racing organization that runs events near you — they can tell you exactly what your state requires and whether you need their approval before you explore to the state. If you are under 18, requirements are stricter and vary widely by state.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's motor vehicle department issues racing licenses, but the racing organization running events in your area can tell you what your state requires before you explore.
  • Most states require a written test on racing rules and safety, a vision test, and proof of a valid driver's license before you can get a racing license.
  • Some racing organizations require you to complete a safety course or attend a driver's school before your first sanctioned event.
  • Fees vary by state and by racing type, and some states charge separately for the license and for each racing event you enter.
  • If you are under 18, your state may require parental consent, a higher minimum age for certain racing types, or additional medical clearance.

Find out what your state requires

Start by identifying which racing organization sanctions events in your area. The major ones are the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) for drag racing, the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) for road course and autocross racing, and the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) for oval track racing. Each organization has a website where you can find local chapters or affiliated tracks.

Contact that organization or the track directly and ask what your state requires before you can race. Some states require a state-issued racing license; others allow you to race under a license issued by the racing organization itself. The organization can also tell you whether you need to complete a safety course before your first event, which tracks or events are open to new drivers, and what the fees are.

Pass the written test and medical check

If your state requires a racing license, you will need to pass a written test administered by your state's motor vehicle department. The test covers racing rules specific to your state, safety procedures, flag signals used on the track, and how to respond to emergencies. Study materials are usually available on the motor vehicle department's website or at the office where you take the test.

You will also need to pass a vision test and, in some states, a medical exam to confirm you are physically able to race. The vision requirement is typically the same as for a regular driver's license — 20/40 vision or better in each eye, with or without correction. Some states require a doctor's signature on a medical form; others do a quick check at the motor vehicle office. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of residency, and any medical forms your state requires.

Complete a safety course if required

Many racing organizations require new drivers to complete a safety course or attend a driver's school before entering a sanctioned event. These courses teach you how to use safety equipment, how to handle a car at racing speeds, proper racing etiquette, and what to do if you lose control or crash. Some courses are one day; others span a weekend.

The racing organization will tell you which courses are approved in your area and whether you can take the course before or after you get your racing license. Some tracks offer their own in-house courses; others partner with independent driving schools. Costs vary from $200 to $1,000 or more depending on the length and intensity of the course. Ask whether the course is required before your first race or whether you can race once and take the course afterward.

Pay the fees and register for an event

Racing license fees vary by state and by racing type. Most states charge between $50 and $200 for the license itself. On top of that, you will pay an entry fee for each event you race in, which typically ranges from $100 to $500 depending on the track and the type of racing. Some racing organizations also charge an annual membership fee to access their events.

Once you have your license, you can register for a specific event through the track's website or by contacting the racing organization. You will need to provide your license number, proof of insurance (required by most tracks), and payment for the entry fee. Some tracks require you to arrive early on race day for a technical inspection of your car to make sure it meets safety standards.

What to do if you are under 18

Most states allow drivers under 18 to get a racing license, but with restrictions. Many require parental or guardian consent, a higher minimum age (often 16 instead of 14), or additional medical clearance. Some states prohibit drivers under a certain age from racing in certain types of events — for example, you might be able to do autocross at 14 but not drag racing until you are 16.

Contact your state's motor vehicle department and the racing organization in your area to find out what the age requirements are for the type of racing you want to do. If parental consent is required, you will need a signed form from your parent or guardian when you explore for the license. Some tracks also require a parent or guardian to be present at the track during your first few races.

Renew your racing license

Racing licenses are typically valid for one to three years, depending on your state. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires, or you can check the expiration date on your license card. Renewal usually requires paying a fee and passing a vision test again, but not the written test.

If your license has been expired for more than a year, you may have to retake the written test and complete a safety course again. Keep your license in a safe place and bring it with you every time you race — you will not be allowed to compete without it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a regular driver's license to get a racing license?

Yes. Most states require you to have a valid driver's license before you can get a racing license. You will need to show it when you explore. A racing license does not replace your regular driver's license — it is a separate document that allows you to race in sanctioned events.

Can I race before I get my state racing license?

It depends on your state and the racing organization. Some organizations issue their own licenses that allow you to race before you get a state license; others require the state license first. Ask the racing organization or track in your area what the order is. Many will let you take a safety course and register for an event while your state license process is being processed.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test. Most states allow you to retake it the same day or within a few days. There is usually a small fee for each retake. Study the materials provided by your state's motor vehicle department before you try again — the test covers the same topics each time.

Do I need insurance to race?

Yes. Most tracks require proof of insurance before you can enter a race. Your regular car insurance may not cover racing; you may need to buy a separate racing insurance policy or a one-day event policy. Ask the track what type of insurance they accept and whether they have a list of insurers who offer racing coverage in your state.

Can I race in another state with my racing license?

Most racing licenses are recognized across state lines, especially if they are issued by a national racing organization like NHRA or SCCA. However, some states have their own requirements for out-of-state drivers. Contact the track in the other state before you travel to confirm your license will be accepted.