Beginners Guide To Trackdays

So, you’ve booked your first track day in your own car — amazing! I can guarantee that once you’ve experienced the thrill of driving a race circuit without worrying about speed cameras, you’ll be hooked and booking your next one in no time.

Before heading out, make sure you’re fully prepared with the following:

• UK Full Driving Licence – hard copy required
   
• Helmet – some circuits offer hire if you don’t own one
   
• Clothing – sleeved T-shirt (minimum), no shorts, and sensible footwear (no boots)
   
• Tow Hook – must be fitted to the front of your car on the day
   

• Insurance cover (track day insurance is separate from road cover)
   
• Check oil, coolant, and tyre pressures
   
• Ensure rear lights and seatbelts are working
   
• No fluid leaks
   
• Tyres in good condition (enough tread & no damage)
   
• Fuel — top up before arriving (running out on track may incur charges!)
   
• Know the noise limit for your circuit and check your car is compliant
   

• Water — stay hydrated throughout the day
   
• Track day organiser’s online briefing (if applicable)
   
• Book tuition if available — it’s one of the best ways to learn quickly
   
• Watch in-car videos on YouTube from instructors at your chosen circuit to familiarise yourself with the layout
   

• Helmet
   
• Appropriate clothing (same rules as drivers: sleeves, no shorts, sensible shoes)
   

✅ Do these basics and you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your first track day.

Arrival
Make sure you arrive at the circuit in good time, especially if you are towing a vehicle and need to unload.

Sign-On
Your first stop will be the circuit office. Here you’ll need to:

• Show your valid driver’s licence
   
• Collect wristbands for drivers and passengers
   
• Receive a noise test sticker for your car
   

Vehicle Preparation
Before heading on track, empty your vehicle of all loose items. Even something as small as a bottle of water can become a dangerous projectile at speed.

Noise Testing
Take your car to the noise test area as early as possible. A marshal will ask you to rev the engine to a set level. This is the static noise test. In addition, circuits also run drive-by noise tests. If your car exceeds the limit during the session, you’ll be flagged into the pitlane.

Drivers’ Briefing
Check your final instructions for briefing times and aim to arrive early. At the briefing, you’ll receive another wristband as proof of attendance — this will be checked before you’re allowed onto track.

Sighting Laps
Immediately after the briefing, you’ll head out for sighting laps.

• Line up in the pitlane and follow the safety car
   
• No overtaking allowed
   
• Use this time to learn the circuit and get comfortable
   

Before You Go Flat Out
Once back in the pits, take a moment to re-check your vehicle and make sure it’s fully ready for the track. Then — it’s time to enjoy your track day!

• It’s not a race – Track days are about enjoying your car, learning the circuit, and improving your driving, not competing with others. Take your time to build speed gradually.
   
• Your car will feel different – On track, your car behaves very differently from on the road. Allow yourself time to get used to braking, cornering, and acceleration in this environment.
   
• Don’t compare yourself to others – You’ll see all sorts of cars and drivers on track. Just because a car looks like a race car doesn’t mean the driver is a pro — they might be a novice like you, or it could even be a shared car with different drivers throughout the day. Focus on your own driving, not theirs.
   
• Expect the unexpected – Never assume what another car will do. Always leave space and stay alert.
   
• Take breaks – Track driving is more tiring than it looks. Even though you’re seated, the focus and adrenaline take a toll. Do short stints, give yourself rest, and let your car cool down between runs. Both you and your car will perform better for it.