£310
So you want to take the next step and actually go motor racing? The first thing you will need is a Motorsport UK Race Club (formerly Race Inter Club) competition licence, which can be gained on successful completion of the ARDS Novice Driver Training Course.
The Novice Drivers Training Course (ARDS Course) can be purchased as an open gift voucher valid for 1 year from the date of purchase
The Novice Drivers Training Course (ARDS Course) operates from Thruxton Circuit in Hampshire.
We operate on selected weekdays.
On the day drivers must wear clothes that cover their arms and legs | Helmets, race boots and gloves are provided, where necessary.
Spectators are welcome - free of charge
Your gift will be delivered by email straight to your inbox, so it's ideal for last-minute presents. Delivery is free and you’ll receive a personalised experience voucher with an optional gift message
You can take the course here at Thruxton. There is a set procedure to secure your licence which is set out by Motorsport UK:
Licence application form
USB stick with the 'Go Racing' video on
Motorsport UK yearbook
Starting Motorsport handbook
Association of Racing Drivers Schools leaflet.
Have a racing medical examination with your doctor and ensure that the form is signed and returned to you - some doctors may charge for this.
Contact us on 01264 882222 to book your course. The ARDS test consists of the following:
Classroom briefing
Driving test. The instructor will demonstrate the lines and technique to you before you drive for a minimum of 5 laps.
Multiple-choice written exam
Please remember that although you will receive tuition and help on your course, the main purpose is to test your suitability to hold a competition licence. If you feel you would benefit from additional track time, we offer an ARDS PLUS course which caters for this need. Please contact our team on 01264882222 for more information.
Once you have successfully completed the course you must send all the relevant paperwork to Motorsport UK to be validated:
Motorsport UK, Bicester Motion, OX278FY
Telephone: 01753 765000
Thruxton also run the Junior ARDS course for 14 to 17 year olds and up. The cost is £600. Below is the criteria for applicants:
The minimum age for a driver to take the course IS 13.5 years old with the license being issued at 14 years old.
Application must be supported by or received from a Junior Race Championship organising club. These are the BARC (Junior Saloon Car Championship / TOCA Junior from 2025) & BRSCC (Ginetta Junior / Fiesta Junior).
Once they have completed the Junior ARDS Training Programme the registered Thruxton Junior ARDS Instructor will sign off their application. Their licence will then be issued in the name of the driver but held by the organising club of their championship (until they are 16 years old when they can then hold a full licence).
For more information on the ARDS Junior Driver Training Programme, please call 01264 882222.
Over 35 years of experience in operating driving experiences. Everything is geared around a quality experience and we limit numbers to ensure this.
Thruxton is the fastest race track in the UK and a fully licensed FIA venue - not a disused airfield.
We only use professional ARDS qualified race instructors who will make your drive more enjoyable.
No 70mph speed limits or numerous "cone chicanes" to keep the speed artificially slow.
The ultimate memento of your visit to Thruxton. Our 360 cameras will capture all the action of your drive in 4K, true 360-degree video for you to enjoy afterwards on all your devices.
Rob Manger is one of Thruxton’s ‘S’ grade ARDS Instructors, working at the race school for over 35 years. A race CV encompassing single seaters, sportscars and touring cars in contemporary and historic categories sits alongside a global coaching history at many of the world’s finest circuits and test facilities.
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An experienced & recognised ARDS Instructor and Driver Coach in and around the South East area. Having successfully competed in a number of Motorsport Championships around the UK from the age of eight, now over 30 years on and still competing and enjoying Motorsport - currently racing in various UK Championships.
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John started racing in the Ginetta GT5 Challenge, finishing as the runner-up in 2021. He then moved over to the GB3 Championship. John then stepped up to FIA Formula 2 season.
View ARDS DetailsBuy an open-dated gift voucher for this experience. The recipient can then book a date that's convenient for them.
Congratulations on receiving a gift voucher for a driving experience at Thruxton Circuit! To get yourself booked in please click "Redeem Voucher".
Redeem voucherThe ultimate memento of your visit to Thruxton. 360 cameras will capture all the action of your drive in 4K, true 360-degree video for you to enjoy afterwards.
Professional quality photos that you can take home at the end of your experience.
We want to substantially raise the game of driving days and driving experiences in the UK - to give our customers the best choice and best value for money driving experiences in the UK.
