ARDS Test (Novice Driver Training Course)

What to expect from the ARDS Test (Novice Drivers Training Course)

Ready to go motor racing? The ARDS Test (Novice Driver Training Course) is designed to assess whether you have the knowledge and driving ability required to hold a Motorsport UK competition licence.

There is a set process to follow before and after completing your ARDS Test at Thruxton.

1. Apply for Your Motorsport UK Go Racing Starter Pack

The first step towards obtaining your race licence is to apply to Motorsport UK for a Go Racing Starter Pack.

Your pack contains the information and documentation you'll need to begin the process, including your licence application form and essential guidance for starting out in motorsport.

2. Complete Your Racing Medical

You'll need to have the required racing medical examination completed by your doctor and ensure the relevant form is signed and returned to you. Please be aware that your doctor may charge for completing the medical.

3. Book Your ARDS Course at Thruxton

Once you're ready, contact the Thruxton team on 01264 882222 to book your Novice Driver Training Course.

Your ARDS test at Thruxton consists of three key elements:

• Classroom briefing
• On-track driving assessment, with your instructor first demonstrating the correct racing lines and driving technique before you drive for a minimum of five laps
• Multiple-choice written examination

You'll receive tuition and guidance during the course, but remember that the primary purpose of the ARDS test is to assess your suitability to hold a competition licence.

If you feel you would benefit from additional tuition or track time before completing your assessment, Thruxton also offers an ARDS PLUS course. Speak to our team on 01264 882222 to find out more.

What Happens After You Pass Your ARDS Test?

Once you've successfully completed the Novice Driver Training Course, you'll need to submit the relevant paperwork to Motorsport UK for validation.

Once your application has been approved and your competition licence issued, you're another important step closer to getting on the grid and starting your racing career.

Junior ARDS Training Programme

Thruxton also offers a dedicated Junior ARDS Training Programme for young drivers looking to take their first steps into circuit racing.

Drivers can take the course from 13.5 years old, with the competition licence issued from the age of 14. Applications must be supported by, or received from, an eligible Junior Race Championship organising club.

Once the Junior ARDS Training Programme has been successfully completed, a registered Thruxton Junior ARDS Instructor will sign off the application. The licence is issued in the driver's name but held by the organising club until the driver reaches the required age to hold their full licence.

For more information about Junior ARDS training at Thruxton, call our team on 01264 882222.

Why Take Your ARDS Test at Thruxton?

The Fastest Circuit in the UK

Complete your ARDS driving assessment on a proper race circuit. Thruxton is the fastest race circuit in the UK and a fully licensed FIA venue, giving aspiring racing drivers the opportunity to learn and be assessed in a genuine motorsport environment.

Professional ARDS Instructors

Our courses are delivered by professional ARDS-qualified race instructors who will demonstrate the correct lines and techniques before assessing your driving on track.

Over 35 Years of Experience

We've been delivering driving experiences for more than 35 years. Numbers are carefully managed to maintain the quality of the experience and give drivers the attention they need throughout their visit.

A Real Race Track

There are no artificial corners or numerous cone chicanes designed to unnecessarily restrict your speed. You'll be driving on the same Thruxton Circuit that hosts some of the biggest championships in British motorsport.

Start Your Journey into Motorsport

If you've always wanted to go racing, completing your ARDS Novice Driver Training Course at Thruxton is an important step towards securing your Motorsport UK race licence.

Take your ARDS test with professional instructors at one of Britain's most iconic race circuits and start turning your ambition to go motor racing into reality.