How to get a Go-kart license

A go-kart license allows you to compete in go-kart championships both national and international, but it is a must if you want to get on track to just practice. There are many types of licenses, and what you apply for depends on your class, go-kart used, and the championship you plan to enter, so let’s look at how to get a go kart license. The process to apply for a license is very much set and stone for most places, with only minor differences in the steps taken depending on where you live. 

So this is how you can get yourself a go-kart license:

1. Know where you will apply

Every country has one or more governing bodies for go-karting. These governing bodies, with assistance from the FIA are tasked in administering these go-kart licenses. For starters, going to your nearest racetrack can give you an idea of where to start. Talking to race teams/clubs in that area is also a good way to find out as they themselves have gone through the process of getting a license. Lastly, you can look up these governing bodies which give go-kart licenses. Key words such as “go-kart license application in (your country)”, “governing body for racing in (your country)”, and “racing license in (your country)” may give you results.

2. Know what you will apply for

As mentioned earlier, there are many types of go-kart licenses, and which one you apply for depends on multiple factors. For example, Superkarts USA issues a C license for beginners, a B license for drivers with at least a 1 year experience in the ProKart Challenge, and Pro license for drivers that SKUSA deems an accomplished driver. SKUSA’s license system is just an example however and is by no means the standard. The types of licenses will always differ depending on where you live, with some systems being more complicated than others. Therefore, it is important that by this point you are familiar with who distributes licenses in your country in order to inquire them about the types of licenses and the ones that you yourself are eligible for. Most governing bodies will start beginners off with a P plate to identify to other racers the drivers experience level is a novice.

3. Prepare the necessary documents

Depending on where you live, what you need to prepare in order to get a license varies. However, all of this necessary information can be found in the official website of the governing body of motorsports in your country. Some requirements to get a license include a picture of yourself, medical documents, and a parental consent form if you are considered a minor and below the legal age. Don’t forget as well, that there is an application fee, membership fee and other fees that can be associated. So before applying, make sure you get these requirements covered.

4. Stay up to date

Now that you have your license, your next job is to make sure you keep it. Licenses can easily be revoked for multiple reasons. For instance, if you are deemed a dangerous driver, this can result in a suspension of your license, or it being revoked. Breaching multiple regulations can also result in the same outcome. Keep in mind however, that a driver’s racing license can be revoked when he/she is off the track as well. If a driver is physically not able to race, or if a driver shows conduct that is immoral and unsportsmanlike, these can result in suspension or termination of a license. So, make sure to hold yourself to a high degree to not only keep your license, but eventually open an opportunity for a higher grade one!

Karting licenses aren’t like going for a test before driving a motor vehicle. Depending on what country you live in, it should be as simple as applying to your karting association and governing body to get a license to hit the racetrack. This should cover your insurance levy if anything were to go wrong, but it also notifies the club you are driving at that you have accepted the terms and conditions that motor racing can be dangerous.

Once you have your license, check out your local track (some will incur a membership fee per club) and get on track. Keep in mind that some memberships will be 12 months from time of purchase and others may be until the end of the year. Now you should be ready to start your kart racing career!