PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE About UsRandom ArticleQuizzesRequest a New Article Community DashboardTrendingForums Computers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Finance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship QuizzesCars & Other Vehicles Food and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and FitnessComputers and Electronics HealthPets and AnimalsTravelEducation & Communication Hobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork WorldFamily Life Holidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Cars & Other Vehicles
Vehicle Sports
How to Become an F1 Driver Download Article Author Info
Last Updated: March 10, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Learning to Drive
|
Climbing the Ranks
|
Getting Your Formula 1 License
|
Racing in Formula 1
|
Video
|
Q&A
|
Tips
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 24 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 591,823 times. Learn more...
Formula 1 drivers are in a highly competitive sport that requires a great deal of talent and commitment to have any hope for success. While it may seem like a dream job, becoming a professional driver takes years of experience and a good deal of financial investment to climb the ranks to Formula 1. By knowing the steps required to becoming a Formula 1 racer, you can fully assess the risks and rewards to decide if the sport is right for you.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 4:
Learning to Drive
Download Article
1 Take a class at a racing school. This is the quickest way to find out if Formula 1 is right for you. It is ideal for older racers that are new to the sport. You will get to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 race car and learn some of the basics of racing. These classes may have a substantial fee for a few hours of racing knowledge, but it is the most affordable way to gain knowledge about Formula 1 racing before you decide to make a larger financial commitment.[1]XResearch source
You must have a valid standard driver's license to take these classes, and if you are a minor you will also need parental consent.
You must be capable of driving a car with a manual transmission to take racing classes.
2 Enroll in a racing program. These programs will involve approximately 1-2 weeks of advanced classes to hone your racing skills. Since your goal is to race in Formula One, you likely want to select a school that is approved by the licensing organization. Advertisement
3 Get your racing license. Upon completion of the required courses your school will send a letter of recommendation to a racing organization. This will enable you to register and compete in a racing school event.[2]XResearch source
4 Enter an amateur school race series. These entry level race events are a great opportunity for amateur drivers to showcase their skills and get the attention of potential sponsors. Some schools hold their own races and will even provide you a car for these race events. You can win scholarships and race points towards getting your next level license.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 4:
Climbing the Ranks
Download Article
1 Try kart racing. This method is the best way for younger racers to get involved in the sport. Most of the top Formula 1 drivers all started off racing carts. Buying a kart can be costly, so you may just want to visit a local kart track and try it out first.[3]XResearch source
2 Get a kart racing license. Some organizations will give any beginner that applies a license so they can start entry level races to learn the sport. To get into more serious races, you will need to continue to apply for higher licenses. You may need to pass a test given at an accredited school, or show proficiency at racing at your current level before being allowed to move up.[4]XResearch source
3 Buy your kart. If you are going to race you need some wheels. There are different vehicles for different levels of race, and you will probably need to buy or rent several karts before you move up to racing cars.
4 Enter a race. Placing well in races is a big part in how quickly your racing career advances. The better you perform the sooner you will reach the next level. If you plan on getting to Formula 1, you will need to race as much as you can and always be looking to move up to the next level.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 4:
Getting Your Formula 1 License
Download Article
1 Complete two years in junior single seater racing events. Formula 1 requires drivers to have a good deal of experience driving similar vehicles. While there are many possible race series that can be your path to Formula 1, all racers must go through one or more of the junior levels to move up.[5]XResearch source
2 Turn 18 years old. Formula 1 racers must all be a minimum age to hold a license. Some younger racers are good enough to be considered for Formula 1, but will not be eligible until they reach the proper age. If you are still too young, look at gaining some more experience in any of the junior single seater race series to add to your race points.
3 Accumulate 40 race points. These points are acquired based on performance and placement in junior race series events. 40 points must be acquired over a 3-year period to be eligible to get your Formula 1 license.[6]XResearch source
4 Accumulate 300 driving kilometers in a Formula 1 car. Drivers must complete 184 miles (300 kilometers) of racing in a recent Formula 1 vehicle. You can complete this driving requirement during official pre-season, in-season, and post-season tests, but the entire portion must be completed within 48 hours. Additionally, you must complete this test within 180 days before you apply for your license.
Advertisement Method 4 Method 4 of 4:
Racing in Formula 1
Download Article
1 Accept an offer to drive for an F1 team. If you have performed well as an amateur an owner might ask for you to drive for their team. These teams are often owned by car companies and have their own sponsorships to cover costs. They usually sign their drivers on a season-to-season basis.[7]XResearch source
2 Get sponsorships. Most Formula 1 drivers have some sponsors that require additional work off the track. To attract sponsors you need to have success on the track and a positive public opinion. You may have to do appearances or photo shoots for your sponsor in addition to your on-track work. Racing is a very expensive sport, so drivers must look to add to supplement their racing income whenever possible.[8]XResearch source
3 Pay to drive in F1. Pay drivers are common in many levels of motorsports, including Formula 1. Instead of being paid by the race team, the driver uses money from sponsorships or their personal fortune to fund the racing operations. While this isn't practical for most new racers in Formula 1, it is an option if you have the ability to pay for it.[9]XResearch source
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question I'm 20 and I want to become a professional driver. How do I go about this? Community Answer Go to Google and find racing clubs in your area, then follow the instructions on this site. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 51 Helpful 170
Question Is it possible to skip kart racing? Shreyash Tijare Community Answer Not really. When driving a real F1 car for the first time, you need to have basic racing skills and some measure of experience, which is what the kart racing provides. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 31 Helpful 152
Question Can I race for my country in Formula 1 if I move to another country or would I be racing for that country? Community Answer Yes. Drivers from around the world all compete in the same championship. It is generally your country of origin and where you are currently a citizen. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 23 Helpful 90
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Developing a polished persona will go a long way to helping your racing career and help you find sponsors and financial backing. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 8
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
Warnings
Racing is very expensive. Be prepared to spend a lot of money to make it to Formula 1. Thanks Helpful 28 Not Helpful 6
Racing cars always comes with the risk of injury due to collisions. Think carefully about the potential danger before you commit to this career. Thanks Helpful 23 Not Helpful 6
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toGet Into RacingHow to Get Into NASCAR as a DriverHow toBecome a Race Car DriverHow to Become an F1 MechanicHow toBecome a Truck DriverHow toBecome a PilotHow toGet a Motorcycle LicenseHow toBecome an Airline PilotHow toBecome a Train DriverLearning to Drive: How Long Does It Take & What Do I Need to Know?How toBecome a Test PilotHow to Get Your Driver’s License in the US (Citizens & Non-Citizens)How toBecome a Pro Football(Soccer) ManagerHow toBecome a Professional Kick Boxer Advertisement
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 24 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 591,823 times. 27 votes - 93% Co-authors: 24Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 591,823 Categories: Vehicle SportsArticle SummaryX
To become an F-1 driver, start by taking a class at a racing school to get a real sense of what driving a Formula 1 race car is like. If you enjoy the class, then enroll in a racing program, which typically involves 1-2 weeks of advanced classes in racing skills. Once you finish the required courses, your school will send a letter of recommendation to a racing organization, enabling you to register and compete in racing school events. To learn how to get your Formula 1 license, keep reading!Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Portuguese Spanish Indonesian French German Arabic Italian Dutch Japanese Korean Hindi
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 591,823 times.
Reader Success Stories
Mason Molavi
Mar 11, 2017
"I am 15 years old and thinking about my career choices. For a long time, I was really set on joining a branch of the United States military and nothing was going to change my mind. When I got older, though, I saw other choices that sparked my interest: mechanical engineering (cars mostly), game programming, building computers, etc. I play a lot of racing games, especially open wheel. Then I considered F1 as a career, and have been researching how to become a driver ever since."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.
About This Article
Co-authors: 24Updated: March 10, 2025 Views: 591,82393% of readers found this article helpful. 27 votes - 93% Click a star to add your vote
Mason Molavi
Mar 11, 2017
"I am 15 years old and thinking about my career choices. For a long time, I was really set on joining a branch of the United States military and nothing was going to change my mind. When I got older, though, I saw other choices that sparked my interest: mechanical engineering (cars mostly), game programming, building computers, etc. I play a lot of racing games, especially open wheel. Then I considered F1 as a career, and have been researching how to become a driver ever since."..." more
Anonymous
Jun 21, 2017
"The whole article helped, as we are from India and we know very little. My son always dreams of being an F1 racer, so every piece of information is significant and important for us. Thank you so much, very helpful."..." more
Hamed Atchinxo
Oct 12, 2016
"I need money to reach my dreams and my dreams are to drive F1 and become the champion of the world. Until I win with high points and the sponsors try to get me, I have to be positive."..." more
Simran Kaur
Mar 23, 2018
"It's a very good page, it helped me a lot. In middle-class families it's very rare to have the amount to become a Formula One car racer, but I want to, it's my heartiest dream."..." more
Kamran Ameerzai
Oct 30, 2018
"It's my dream to become a successful Formula 1 driver. Because of this article, I learned a lot; it's gonna help to achieve my target and chase my dream. Very useful, thanks."..." more Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
Do You Have What It Takes To Become A Millionaire?Take QuizHow Rich Will I Be QuizTake QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizShould I Go to College QuizTake QuizWhat Should I Be When I Grow Up QuizTake QuizAm I Ready for College QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toGet Into RacingHow to Get Into NASCAR as a DriverHow toBecome a Race Car DriverHow to Become an F1 Mechanic
Featured Articles
How toRemove Shorts from Search Results on YouTubeWhat Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?
Trending Articles
Am I Chopped QuizCrush Calculator: Does Your Crush Like You Back?What Does “Eat Zucchini” From KATSEYE Mean?How Rare Is My Birthday QuizAm I a Pick Me Girl QuizWhat Is the I Found a Leaf Relationship Test on TikTok?
Featured Articles
How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out With
Featured Articles
What Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Will 2026 Be Your Year? Reveal Your FutureUnderstanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)
Watch Articles
How toIron PantsHow toCut LimesHow to Make Your Own Comforting Cinnamon TeaHow toDraw 3D ShapesHow toMake a Sugar ScrubHow to Wear a Scarf: 19 Different Styles
Trending Articles
Rank My Attractiveness QuizChildhood Trauma TestAm I Neurotypical or Neurodivergent QuizGuess My Deepest Secret QuizWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizGuess My Age Quiz
Quizzes & Games
College Recommendation ToolWhat Should I Be Famous For QuizTake QuizTraffic Signs TestTake QuizWhen Will I Die QuizTake QuizHow Will I Die QuizTake QuizWhat Am I Good At QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Cars & Other Vehicles
Vehicle Sports
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Author Info 
Advertisement 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
916 
1 Take a class at a racing school. This is the quickest way to find out if Formula 1 is right for you. It is ideal for older racers that are new to the sport. You will get to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 race car and learn some of the basics of racing. These classes may have a substantial fee for a few hours of racing knowledge, but it is the most affordable way to gain knowledge about Formula 1 racing before you decide to make a larger financial commitment.[1] 
2 Enroll in a racing program. These programs will involve approximately 1-2 weeks of advanced classes to hone your racing skills. Since your goal is to race in Formula One, you likely want to select a school that is approved by the licensing organization. Advertisement 
3 Get your racing license. Upon completion of the required courses your school will send a letter of recommendation to a racing organization. This will enable you to register and compete in a racing school event.[2] 
4 Enter an amateur school race series. These entry level race events are a great opportunity for amateur drivers to showcase their skills and get the attention of potential sponsors. Some schools hold their own races and will even provide you a car for these race events. You can win scholarships and race points towards getting your next level license. Advertisement 
1 Try kart racing. This method is the best way for younger racers to get involved in the sport. Most of the top Formula 1 drivers all started off racing carts. Buying a kart can be costly, so you may just want to visit a local kart track and try it out first.[3] 
2 Get a kart racing license. Some organizations will give any beginner that applies a license so they can start entry level races to learn the sport. To get into more serious races, you will need to continue to apply for higher licenses. You may need to pass a test given at an accredited school, or show proficiency at racing at your current level before being allowed to move up.[4] 
3 Buy your kart. If you are going to race you need some wheels. There are different vehicles for different levels of race, and you will probably need to buy or rent several karts before you move up to racing cars. 
4 Enter a race. Placing well in races is a big part in how quickly your racing career advances. The better you perform the sooner you will reach the next level. If you plan on getting to Formula 1, you will need to race as much as you can and always be looking to move up to the next level. Advertisement 
1 Complete two years in junior single seater racing events. Formula 1 requires drivers to have a good deal of experience driving similar vehicles. While there are many possible race series that can be your path to Formula 1, all racers must go through one or more of the junior levels to move up.[5] 
2 Turn 18 years old. Formula 1 racers must all be a minimum age to hold a license. Some younger racers are good enough to be considered for Formula 1, but will not be eligible until they reach the proper age. If you are still too young, look at gaining some more experience in any of the junior single seater race series to add to your race points. 
3 Accumulate 40 race points. These points are acquired based on performance and placement in junior race series events. 40 points must be acquired over a 3-year period to be eligible to get your Formula 1 license.[6] 
4 Accumulate 300 driving kilometers in a Formula 1 car. Drivers must complete 184 miles (300 kilometers) of racing in a recent Formula 1 vehicle. You can complete this driving requirement during official pre-season, in-season, and post-season tests, but the entire portion must be completed within 48 hours. Additionally, you must complete this test within 180 days before you apply for your license. Advertisement 
1 Accept an offer to drive for an F1 team. If you have performed well as an amateur an owner might ask for you to drive for their team. These teams are often owned by car companies and have their own sponsorships to cover costs. They usually sign their drivers on a season-to-season basis.[7] 
2 Get sponsorships. Most Formula 1 drivers have some sponsors that require additional work off the track. To attract sponsors you need to have success on the track and a positive public opinion. You may have to do appearances or photo shoots for your sponsor in addition to your on-track work. Racing is a very expensive sport, so drivers must look to add to supplement their racing income whenever possible.[8] 
3 Pay to drive in F1. Pay drivers are common in many levels of motorsports, including Formula 1. Instead of being paid by the race team, the driver uses money from sponsorships or their personal fortune to fund the racing operations. While this isn't practical for most new racers in Formula 1, it is an option if you have the ability to pay for it.[9] Advertisement 
Community Answer Go to Google and find racing clubs in your area, then follow the instructions on this site. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 51 Helpful 170 
Shreyash Tijare Community Answer Not really. When driving a real F1 car for the first time, you need to have basic racing skills and some measure of experience, which is what the kart racing provides. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 31 Helpful 152 
Community Answer Yes. Drivers from around the world all compete in the same championship. It is generally your country of origin and where you are currently a citizen. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 23 Helpful 90 