Car Trackday Guide

Car Trackday Guide

A trackday is an opportunity to take your own car onto a real racing circuit, away from the restrictions of the open road in a non-competitive environment. Almost any vehicle can be taken on a trackday, and you can drive at a speed that suits you.

It’s one of the most enjoyable and safest ways to enjoy your own machine alongside like-minded individuals. Find out more by reading our guide below.

Calendar

What equipment do I need?

In basic terms, there’s really only four things you need in order to take part in a trackday. These are:

  • A valid driving licence for drivers over 18 (A federative licence for drivers between 16-18 years)
  • A roadworthy vehicle
  • Helmet
  • Towing eye fitted

In order to participate you must be aged over 16 and hold:

  • A federative licenced issued by a federation (regional, RFEDA, FIM)

       or

  • A valid driving licence issued by the DGT or the equivalent licensing authority in the driver’s country of residence

    Your car must conform minimum standards for road use and have working seatbelts.

    Finally, a suitable helmet must be worn when driving, and legs and feet fully covered. Make sure that the helmet is snug, and not too loose.

    PLEASE NOTE: Electric vehicles (E V's) are not permitted on track days. 

    How safe are trackdays?

    A trackday is just about the safest place to explore the limits of your vehicle. On some days, you’ll have the option of running in groups of cars with similar performance or with drivers of a similar experience level. Trackdays are also run with the same strict controls as race events so there are experienced operators in the control room who observe driving standards in liaison with marshals around the circuit, and monitor every inch of the circuit. The marshals also use the same flag signals as race events, so you’ll be warned if there’s anything happening on track.

    Do I need insurance?

    If you have a federative licence, personal insurance is already included.

    If you don´t have a federative licence, it is mandatory to have an insurance that covers the rider during the event. This is a special insurance for circuits.

    We offer two possibilities:

    • Daily insurance: 15 €
    • Annual insurance: 100 €

    Some drivers have their own insurance that covers this activity. In that case, it is mandatory to bring a certificate, which must specify that it is a special insurance for circuits.

    It is not mandatory to have insurance for the car. However, please be advised that if a crashed car causes damage to the circuit, the owner of the car will assume the cost of the repair. In the event two cars crash, the owners of those vehicles will need to agree how to proceed.

    What is the format of the trackday?

    Trackdays will run in a sessioned format, with cars or drivers grouped together, usually according to each type of car.

    What does a standard day look like?

    You will need to arrive at the circuit around 60-90 minutes before your track activity starts. This will be so you can sign on for the event (if you haven´t signed on in advanced through our platform and there is availability, you will be able to sign on the day of the event), and view a safety briefing. The assistance to this briefing is mandatory.

    How do I book?

    Booking is extremely simple. You can sign on by clicking on this link: https://extranet.circuitodenavarra.com/es/inscripcion

    Can I overtake slower cars?

    Yes you can, but overtaking will not be permitted in braking zones or through corners, and will be monitored in race control. If you’re being overtaken, you can help the driver behind pass safely by moving over to the right hand side of the track to give room and putting on your indicator to show you’re allowing a car to pass. If you´re going to overtake, please do it where it is not a risk. Remember, you´re not alone on the track.

    Can I bring friends, family or a passenger?

    Spectators are welcome at trackdays, with viewing areas usually open free of charge around the circuit. Guests can also access the garages but shouldn’t enter the pit lane. Passengers are also allowed and will have to wear the same equipment and need to sign the same documentation before going on track. It is mandatory for them to have insurance cover.

    What happens if my car has a problem and stops on track?

    Breakdowns are rare on trackdays, especially with well-maintained vehicles. If your car does stop on track, you will be best to park it as far from the track as you can, and as close to a barrier as possible. This will allow a quick and safe recovery of the vehicle.

    What else should I do?

    Simple things you should check before a trackday begins include tyre wear, engine oil levels, and the condition of your brakes. Before the day begins, you should empty your cabin of any unnecessary items - you don’t want things flying around when cornering at speed, or worse, getting stuck under pedals! Also make sure your lights and indicators are working, and that your mirrors are clear. It’s also advised to have the wing mirrors turned outwards perhaps more than on the road, so you can see as wide an angle behind (and to the side) of you as possible.

    What other things could I bring with me?

    The items mentioned above are the bare minimum, but you can make your life even easier by bringing a range of other tools and consumables. It’s always worth carrying engine oil and funnels, and a toolset as well with spanners, sockets, screwdrivers, torque wrenches and other basics like cable ties. Finally, a tyre pressure gauge and a foot pump will always come in handy too.

    What if I want to improve my driving ability?

    Trackdays have professional experienced instructors that have to be booked in advanced, and will be able to give guidance on the day and more detailed advice with a small additional charge. Trackdays also have a great friendly atmosphere, and fellow trackday customers will also be happy to share advice and tips with likeminded enthusiasts!

    PLEASE NOTE: This activity is only for recreational use and we don't allow professional race teams to run during these days. Also, please be advised it is not possible to stay overnight at the circuit.