The Path to Competing in the Premier Motorsport Series

To compete in the Formula 1 Championship, a driver must hold a super licence, a top-tier qualification issued by the FIA, the governing body of motorsport. This licence is essential for anyone aiming to participate in the highest level of racing. According to the FIA’s International Sporting Code, drivers must meet several criteria, including holding an FIA-issued International Grade A licence, being at least 18 years old (with exceptions for drivers aged 17), passing a theory test on F1 regulations, and accumulating points from FIA-recognised championships.

To qualify, drivers must collect a minimum of 40 points over a two or three-year period. These points are earned based on performance in various series such as Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, IndyCar, and others. The top finishers in these series receive the most points, with Formula 2 champions earning 40 points, while IndyCar champions receive 40 points, second place 30, and third place 20. In Formula 3 and Formula E, the champion receives 30 points, second place 25, and third place 20.

The FIA has also introduced a ‘free practice only’ super licence, which allows drivers to participate in F1 practice sessions. To obtain this licence, a driver must be at least 18 years old, hold a Grade A licence, pass the FIA theory test, and either complete six races in Formula 2 or accumulate 25 super licence points over three seasons. Drivers with this licence can earn points by completing 100km in F1 practice sessions.

American driver Colton Herta, who was set to join Cadillac in Formula 1, currently lacks the necessary points to obtain a super licence. With only 35 points from his recent three seasons in IndyCar, Herta will lose one point in 2024, bringing his total to 34. As a result, he will serve as a test driver for Cadillac in 2026 and compete in Formula 2, where he needs to finish in the top eight to secure the required 40 points.

The FIA continues to refine its licensing process, with changes such as the removal of the requirement for an ordinary driver’s licence in 2024. This shift reflects the FIA’s focus on ensuring that drivers are fully prepared for the physical and technical demands of Formula 1.

The super licence remains a critical gateway to the pinnacle of motorsport, ensuring that only the most skilled and prepared drivers can compete at the highest level. It not only serves as a qualification but also acts as a benchmark for drivers’ readiness to handle the intense pressures of Formula 1 racing.