So you've decided that Racing Cars may be for you. Here is a how you can quickly progress from pounding the Freeways to lapping the track like a pro!

As always, we are here to help. If you have any questions, or need help along the way then we're always happy to assist.

Unfortuantely, as usual the lawyers want to spoil the party, so whilst we believe the information on this page to be accurate and complete, we cannot be held liable for errors or omissions. Opinions and products listed here should not be relied on to make purchasing decisions, and you agree not to hold us liable for the use of any information on this page.

Whew! That said, let's get started.

Join NASA

CLICK HERE to join NASA

NASA are a really nice bunch of guys that organize the race meetings, issue licenses, and provide insurance for the events. Joining the club also gets you discounts on various racing items, so that's the first thing you should do.

Once you have your Membership number then please send it to us in an e-mail at licensing@funcup.com so that we can keep in touch, and help you reach your goal of becoming a Racing Driver.

Read the Rules

Club Codes & Regulations

Endurance Racing Regulations

Spend the time to get intimately familiar with these documents, as the information within is how we keep you safe and ensure you have Fun! Pay particular attention to flag signals, and all safety related regulations. And before you ask... YES, there WILL be a test to pass before you can get your license, so there's no avoiding it.

Raced Before?

If you already have a race license from another sanctioning body or think that you may have qualifying experience then fill out THIS FORM. If the licencing administrator agrees, then you'll receive your license in the post and can skip to LET'S RACE.

The traditional method of obtaining a Racing License is to progress through the NASA group system, but if you just can't wait and want to hit the track NOW, then we can help organize intensive courses that will equip you with all of the skills to compete on the track, and qualify you for a Racing License. Please call us for details and locations.

Groups are assigned by NASA based on a drivers experience and ability. Group changes can be made throughout the day, assuming a driver has the ability to progress safely!

Start at the Beginning

Sign up for HPDE Group 1

HPDE Group 1 can be completed in any standard road car. It doesn't need to be fast, just reliable and safe. The only specialized equipment you need is a helmet, and if you want to go all-the-way then now would be a great time to invest in a good quality helmet that meets the specs in CCR 15.17.3 (That's the "Club Codes & Regulations" document that you read above). For a list of some helmets that are suitable, CLICK HERE. You don't need it yet, but make sure that what you buy will work with your choice of SFI 38.1 rated head and neck restraint (e.g. HANS). If you're in doubt, then call us to ask.

A set of racing gloves and shoes would be a great investment, because they give you more precise control over your vehicle. It also means you can spread the cost of your safety equipment over a period of time, rather than buying it all at once.

Once you're at the track and your car has passed a technical inspection, then you will be allocated a NASA instructor that will teach you the skills to confidently drive at speed. Passing is strictly controlled, and you won't be intimidated by some crazy nut in a Ferrari zipping by you at 200 MPH.

As with any sport, we believe that you should start slow and put a lot of emphasis on your technique, because the habits formed now will stay with you for the rest of your life. The instructors have all had many hours in the seat, and will be more than happy to help you benefit from their experience.

NASA has some great information HERE on how you can easily and cheaply take the first step in your own car, or if you prefer not to risk your pride and joy we can organize to deliver a car to the track, and give you personal one-to-one coaching from our professional, championship winning instructors on how to progress quickly and safely to Group 2.

Onward and Upward

Move up to HPDE Group 2

HPDE Group 2 is the same as Group 1, except that you are now allowed to drive solo. You will still be under the supervison of the Race Director, as well as a multitute of corner workers. If you apply what you learnt in Group 1 and develop a consistent and safe driving style, then you should quickly be promoted to Group 3.

Build Technique and Speed

Move up to HPDE Group 3

HPDE Group 3 has less restrictive passing, and you will be using a lot more of your cars potential. Now you're ready to take the wheel of a Fun Cup car! Immediately you will notice the difference in power and handling, with a level of grip and g-forces that are unmatched by mere road cars. The cars inspire confidence, and allow you to understand why racing is such an amazing experience.

Keep your nose clean and pove that you are safe and capable of sharing the track and you will be promoted to Group 4.

Open Track

Move up to HPDE Group 4

You've arrived! Group 4 is totally unrestricted, apart from the rules of good judgment and racing etiquette. You and your peers are now experiencing the joys of doing it right in a safe environment! You can now enjoy high performance driving at its finest.

Once you have completed this level then you are eligable to take the Race License test.

Beforehand

If you've studied the regulations and progressed to Group 4, then you should have all of the skills required to pass the license test. If you want to brush up on the rules, then now would be a good time.

The Test

To schedule a test, contact your local NASA chapter and register with THIS FORM. The day will start just like any other NASA event, where your car will be inspected to ensure its safety. After that you can look forward to a written test to guarantee you have read the rules and have the required knowledge.

You can take the test in either the Fun Cup car, or any other vehicle of your choice. It has to be suitable for Group 4, but speed isn't what the examiners will be looking for. Safety and consistency is always the key. You will be expected to drive in a Group 4 session and prove that you are safe and aware of other cars around you.

The Final Step

You will need to get a medical doctor to complete THIS FORM and submit it to NASA along with your Competition License Application.

CONGRATULATIONS! You're now a Fun Cup Racing Driver, and can compete in any of our 3-6 hour races... PLUS you are eligible for the Spa 25hr race in Belgium!

Equipment Checklist

The demands of wheel-to-wheel competition dictate that you upgrade your safety equipment. A full list can be found in CCR 15.17, and requires:

1. Driving Suit                          ($129)
2. Underwear                          ($100)
3. Helmet                                 ($249)
4. Gloves                                 ($39)
5. Eye and Face Protection      (Included with full-face helmets)
6. Shoes                                  ($65)
7. Socks                                   ($19)
8. Head and Neck Restraint     ($750)

The options can be endless, so we are here for advice on what's best for you. Investment in good safety equipment is something that you won't regret, so buy the best you can afford.

Racing Calendar

The Fun Cup racing calendar can be found HERE, and you are eligible to compete in all of these races with the exception of the 25hr race at Thunderhill, as this requires you to have successfully raced with NASA 4 times. We can help you achieve this milestone by either racing with us on the normal Fun Cup calendar, or accelerating your progress by entering other NASA races with the Fun Cup car.

If you have a group of friends that you want to race with, then all you need to do is pick the day and book your car. If you would like us to fit you in with another team of drivers, then we will match you into a group of like-minded people that also want to enjoy the Fun Cup.

What are you waiting for? THE FUN STARTS NOW!