Become a Karter

  • No experience needed
  • Find the right route for you
  • Local clubs across the UK
  • Clear next steps today

Take our quiz to find your motorsport

A karting licence costs less than you think. The first step takes a weekend. We will show you the way in.

Ready, set, go! Starter packs

Your First Kart Competition Licence (ARKS)

£78

1

Dreaming of joining the grid? Your Motorsport UK First Kart Competition Licence Pack is where your journey begins - the essential starting point for every new kart competitor. It’s the only way to access your first Kart Inter Club Licence, and the cost of the pack includes your very first licence fee.

Your questions Answered

What's the minimum age I can start competing?

Age 6 in Bambino karting.
Classes are available all the way through to adult.

Can adults start karting?

Yes. Many circuits offer adult arrive-and-drive sessions and championships with no previous experience required.

Do I need to buy a kart?

No. Many circuits and teams offer arrive-and-drive packages including the kart, fuel, tyres and mechanical support.

How much will it cost?

Indoor arrive-and-drive sessions start from around £40.
Owner-driver karting requires around £1,500+ to purchase equipment and complete licence tests.
Race entries typically start from £80–£150, plus tyres, fuel, maintenance and travel.

What licence do I need?

It depends on the type of karting:
Indoor karting venues often have their own licences (e.g. TeamSport).
Some arrive-and-drive championships require no licence.
Club100 requires a free Motorsport UK KX licence.
Owner-driver kart racing requires a Kart Licence Test and a Motorsport UK Karting Starter Pack (£78).

How do I find karting near me?

Use the Motorsport UK Event Finder to discover Motorsport UK-permitted karting events taking place across the UK. Search by location and date to find competitions and events near you.

Choosing your Next steps

Powered by People

Motorsport is not just powered by engines, it is powered by people – from competitors and volunteers to clubs, organisers and venues, whose passion drives the sport forward. Together, we will power the future of motorsport.

11,000 Volunteers
100k Community members
3,500 Permitted events per year
600+ Clubs
64,000 Competitors
100k Community members
3,500 Permitted events per year
600+ Clubs
64,000 Competitors
11,000 Volunteers

There’s nothing Stopping you

It’s easier to start than you think

From local autotests to karting, there are ways to get involved this weekend without a team or a trailer.

You don’t need to be an expert

Friendly clubs and schools can help you learn the basics before you compete.

You don’t need to own a race car

Many routes let you begin with your road car, shared equipment or entry-level hire options.

There are beginner-friendly routes in

Karting, autotests, trials and local events are all built around accessible first steps.