Amateur car racing is an exciting opportunity for car lovers who want a taste of the high-speed action of a track event. For beginners looking to try their skills and push their limits, amateur racing provides a more accessible way to do so compared to the world of professional motorsports.
Here’s an amateur car racing guide that will discuss everything you’ll need to be aware of when starting up, from the best track days for beginners to racing licenses and the best modifications.
1. Choosing the Right Type of Amateur Racing
Before entering a racing event, it’s important to choose the type of racing that suits your driving style and budget.
Popular Types of Amateur Racing:
- Track Days – Non-competitive driving events where participants can drive at high speeds in a controlled environment.
- Autocross – A timed competition on a cone-marked course, emphasising driver skill over raw speed.
- Time Attack – A race against the clock where drivers aim for the fastest lap time.
- Drag Racing – Straight-line acceleration races typically held at 1/4-mile or 1/8-mile tracks.
- Rallycross – Off-road or mixed-surface racing focused on car control and quick reflexes.
- Club Racing – Wheel-to-wheel racing organised by local motorsports clubs with strict rules and safety standards.
The best track days for absolute beginners provide a safe, low-pressure environment to develop driving skills before moving into competitive events.
Quick Guide
Your First Lap into Amateur Racing
- Pick your race type: Track days, autocross, drag, rally, or club racing.
- Start with beginner-friendly track days to build confidence.
- Get licensed: Club-level racing often requires basic certification.
- Prep your car: Safety first—brakes, tyres, and reliability matter most.
- Master the basics: Apexes, braking points, throttle control.
- Budget smartly: Racing is fun—but not free.
- Join the scene: Car clubs, forums, and volunteering can fast-track your journey.
Pro Tip
Don’t rush into modifications. A well-maintained stock car with quality tyres and upgraded brakes will teach you more about driving fast than bolt-on horsepower ever could.
Important
Track days and beginner events may not require a racing licence—but as you progress, clubs like SCCA, NASA, or the UK’s MSUK will expect proper certification. Always check entry requirements before booking an event.
2. Finding the Best Track Days for Beginners
Track days are one of the best ways to experience high-performance driving without the pressure of competition. Many racetracks and car clubs host beginner-friendly track days to help new drivers gain confidence behind the wheel.
How to Find Track Days:
- Local Racetracks – Many tracks offer open-lapping days for street-legal and modified cars.
- Motorsports Clubs – Organizations like the SCCA, NASA, and PCA provide structured track events for beginners.
- Online Directories – Websites like MotorsportReg list upcoming amateur racing events.
- Social Media & Forums – Many car enthusiast groups share track day schedules and recommendations.
Attending one of the best track days for beginners is the ideal first step before moving into full-fledged racing.
3. Racing Licenses Explained: What You Need to Compete
While casual track days don’t require a license, many sanctioned racing events do. Here’s a breakdown of racing licenses explained and how to obtain one.
Types of Racing Licenses:
- Track Day Permit – Required for some advanced track days but not for casual open-lapping events.
- Club Racing License – Issued by motorsports clubs like SCCA or NASA, allowing participation in amateur competitions.
- National Competition License – Required for professional racing series, such as IMSA or FIA-sanctioned events.
- Drag Racing License – Required for high-performance drag racing, typically issued by NHRA or IHRA.
How to Obtain a Racing License:
- Attend a Racing School – Many organisations require the completion of a certified racing course.
- Pass a Medical Exam – Ensures you meet physical fitness requirements.
- Participate in a Licensing Event – Some clubs require participation in a supervised event before granting a license.
- Submit an Application – Apply with the appropriate motorsports organisation and pay the required fees.
For those serious about amateur racing, obtaining a club racing license opens the door to wheel-to-wheel competition.
4. Preparing Your Car for Racing
Your car needs to be in top condition to get the most out of your racing experience. While many track days allow stock vehicles, performance modifications can greatly enhance safety and handling.
Essential Car Upgrades:
- Performance Tyres – High-performance or semi-slick tyres improve grip and handling.
- Brake Upgrades – Performance brake pads, rotors, and fluid prevent fade under hard braking.
- Suspension Tuning – Coilovers, sway bars, and bushings enhance cornering stability.
- Safety Equipment – A roll bar, racing harness, and fire extinguisher improve driver safety.
- Weight Reduction – Removing unnecessary components like rear seats and spare tyres improves performance.
Before any event, ensure your car passes a pre-track inspection to avoid mechanical failures on race day.
5. Essential Driving Techniques for Amateur Racers
To become a better driver, mastering fundamental racing techniques is key.
Key Driving Techniques:
- Braking Points – Learn where to brake to maximise speed through corners.
- Apex Control – Hitting the right part of the turn to maintain momentum.
- Throttle Modulation – Gradually applying throttle to prevent wheel spin.
- Heel-toe downshifting – A technique that smooths out gear changes while braking.
- Trail Braking – Slight braking while entering a turn to improve rotation.
Practising these skills during the best track days for beginners will help build confidence before entering competitive racing.
6. Budgeting for Amateur Racing
Racing can be expensive, but careful budgeting can make it more accessible.
Estimated Costs for Amateur Racing:
- Track Days – $150-$500 per event
- Racing School – $1,000-$5,000 for a multi-day course
- Car Modifications – $2,000-$10,000+ depending on upgrades
- Safety Gear – $500-$2,500 (helmet, suit, gloves, and shoes)
- Tyres & Maintenance – $1,000-$5,000 per season
To keep costs manageable, consider buying a used race-prepped car or joining a racing team to share expenses.
7. Joining a Racing Community
Getting involved in a racing community can provide valuable connections and opportunities to improve your skills.
Best Ways to Join the Racing Scene:
- Join a Racing Club – Organizations like SCCA, NASA, and PCA host events for amateur racers.
- Attend Car Meets & Track Days – Networking with other racers can lead to mentorship and sponsorship opportunities.
- Follow Motorsports Forums & Social Media Groups – Online communities share advice, upcoming events, and racing tips.
- Volunteer at Events – Helping at races gives behind-the-scenes insight and can lead to on-track opportunities.
Being part of a racing community makes the experience more enjoyable and helps you progress faster in your racing journey.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Do I need a race car to get started in amateur racing?
Not at all. Many track days welcome street-legal cars with minimal prep. Focus on tyre condition, brakes, and a basic tech inspection.
2. What’s the difference between autocross and track days?
Autocross is low-speed and set on a cone-marked course, focusing on precision. Track days let you stretch your legs at higher speeds on a proper circuit.
3. How much does amateur racing really cost?
You can get started for under £500 with a basic track day and minimal mods. But serious competition can run into the thousands. Budget wisely and upgrade gradually.
4. Is a racing school worth it?
Absolutely. A few days with professionals can teach more than a year of solo track time—and many schools count towards licensing requirements.
5. Can I race with friends or form a team?
Yes! Many grassroots series welcome team entries. It’s a great way to share costs, learn together, and keep the experience fun.
Conclusion: Take the First Step into Amateur Racing
Before You Start Your Engines Amateur Car Racing: An Adventurous Journey Delving into amateur car racing is an exhilarating challenge that requires discipline, preparation, and practice. Whether you start with the best track days for beginners or work toward getting a racing license, each step gets you that much closer to the fun of competitive racing.
With due preparation, mindset, and a supportive community, you can evolve quickly from an enthusiastic amateur to the track. Ready to hit the track? Check out these top racing events.