Novice Drivers Training Course

About the Novice Drivers Training Course

You can take the Novice Drivers Training Course, formally known as the ARDS test, here at Thruxton in a Porsche Cayman. There is a set procedure to secure your licence which is set out by the Motorsport UK:

Apply to Motorsport UK for your Go Racing starter pack, which will include:
- Licence application form
- Go Racing video
- Motorsport UK yearbook
- Starting Motorsport handbook
- Association of Racing Drivers Schools leaflet.
If over 60 years old, 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 Novice Drivers Training Course 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.
- Two multiple-choice exam papers

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 a Novice Drivers Training PLUS Course which caters for this need. Click here for more info

Once you have successfully completed the course you must send all the relevant paperwork to the Motorsport UK to be validated:

Motorsport UK Motorsport House, Riverside Park, Colnbrook, Slough, SL3 0HG Telephone: 01753 681736

About the Junior ARDS Training Program

Thruxton also runs the Junior ARDS course for 14 to 16-year-olds and up. The cost is £600. Below is the criteria for applicants:
1. The minimum age for a driver to take the course is 13 years 6 months but the licence won’t be issued until they turn 14
2. The application must be supported by or received from a Junior Race Championship organising club. These are the BARC (Junior Ginetta Championship and Junior Saloon Car Championship) and the BRSCC (Fiesta Junior Championship)

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) then they will hold a full licence

For more information on the ARDS Junior Driver Training Programme, please call 01264 882222.

The Cars

Porsche Cayman

The Porsche Cayman is a genuine junior supercar. Similar in looks to the 911 but with a mid-engine layout.

Out on track the car gives incredible feedback, allowing the driver to build in confidence and enjoy the increased power and incredible grip that the car generates.

0-60: 5.8 seconds
Top Speed: 163 mph
Power: 261 bhp
Torque: 221 lb/ft
Engine Size: 2.9 litre 6 cylinder
Gearbox: 6 speed manual
Configuration: Mid engine, rear wheel drive

: Cars with In-Car Recording

Novice Drivers Training Course Availability

Open Dated Voucher

Open Voucher Valid for 12 months - £310

Gift Pack Options

Gift Voucher Pack - £2.50

Gift voucher pack includes; our current brochure with details of all our experiences and information about Thruxton, personalised gift voucher with an optional gift message and a list of dates to attend.

Why Buy A Driving Experience From Thruxton

Our Top Reasons For Buying A Driving Experience At Thruxton

No on the day pressure to purchase expensive accident damage waiver at registration. The price you see is the price you pay.
Over 35 years of experience in operating driving experiences.
We'll automatically extend your voucher if you have to cancel due to Covid-19.
Our driving experience days operate in a covid safe environment. Find out more
Thruxton is the fastest race track in the UK and a fully licensed FIA venue - not a disused airfield.
No 70mph speed limits or numerous "cone chicanes" to keep the speed artificially slow.
Models from Ferrari, Mclaren, Aston Martin, Porsche, Audi, Jaguar, Ford, BMW, Alpine and single-seat racing cars.
You drive on the full 2.4-mile circuit as used by the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and other top-class championships plus we have all the expected venue spectator facilities.

View all the benefits of Thruxton

Need to Know Information

The Novice Drivers Training Course can be purchased as an open gift voucher valid for 1 year from the date of purchase

The Novice Drivers Training Course operates from Thruxton Circuit in Hampshire

We operate on selected weekdays and Saturdays. Please note: there is a £12 premium if you choose to book on a Saturday, payable when a date is booked

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