Every driver aspiring to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship must first obtain an FIA Super Licence. This essential qualification, issued by motorsport’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), ensures that only adequately experienced and skilled individuals reach the pinnacle of racing.
The Super Licence system was significantly revamped in 2015, following Max Verstappen’s debut at 17 years old, to establish clearer pathways and prevent drivers from entering Formula 1 prematurely.
Fundamental requirements for eligibility
To be considered for an FIA Super Licence, a driver must satisfy several core criteria outlined in the FIA’s International Sporting Code, Appendix L, Article 13. Firstly, they must hold a current FIA International Grade A competition licence, which is the highest tier of international racing licence.
A driver must also be at least 18 years old at the start of their first Formula 1 competition. However, since mid-2024, the FIA introduced a discretionary clause allowing 17-year-old drivers to be granted a Super Licence if they have consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car competition.
Furthermore, applicants must successfully complete a knowledge test on the International Sporting Code and Formula 1 Sporting Regulations. This theory examination is a mandatory step for first-time applicants, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the sport’s rules and safety protocols.
Drivers are also required to have completed at least 80% of two separate seasons in any of the FIA-certified single-seater championships that award Super Licence points. This ensures a foundational level of competitive experience in relevant categories.
The 40-point accumulation system
A critical component of the Super Licence qualification is the accumulation of at least 40 Super Licence points. These points are earned through strong performances in various FIA-sanctioned racing series over a specific period.
The FIA considers points accumulated over either the three-year period immediately preceding the year of application, or the two-year period preceding the year of application combined with points earned in the year of application, whichever yields the higher total. This flexible approach accounts for different career trajectories.
These Super Licence points are distinct from championship points awarded in individual series and are solely for eligibility purposes. The allocation of points varies significantly by championship, reflecting the FIA’s assessment of each series’ competitiveness and relevance to Formula 1.
Super licence points allocation by championship
The following table outlines the Super Licence points awarded to the top finishers in key FIA-recognised championships, based on the most recent regulations. These allocations are crucial for drivers planning their ascent to Formula 1.
| championship | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| fia formula 2 championship | 40 | 40 | 40 | 30 | 20 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| indycar series (from 2026) | 40 | 30 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 1 |
| fia formula 3 championship | 30 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| fia formula e world championship | 30 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| super formula (japan) | 30 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 3 |
| fia world endurance championship (hypercar) | 30 | 24 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 6 | 4 | 2 |
Additional avenues for super licence points
Beyond championship results, drivers can accrue supplementary Super Licence points through other specific achievements. For instance, a driver who competes in an entire FIA championship season without incurring any penalty points is granted an additional two points.
The winner of the FIA Formula Regional World Cup receives an extra three points on top of their sporting results in the same calendar year. Furthermore, participation in Formula 1 Free Practice sessions can contribute to a driver’s tally.
A Free Practice Only Super Licence holder can earn one additional point per Formula 1 World Championship event by successfully completing at least 100km during a free practice session, provided no penalty points were imposed. A maximum of 10 such additional points can be considered for a Super Licence application.
The free practice only super licence
For drivers participating exclusively in Formula 1 free practice sessions, a specific Free Practice Only Super Licence is required. This licence allows teams to give academy drivers valuable track time during Grand Prix weekends.
The requirements for this licence are slightly less stringent than for a full Super Licence. Drivers must still be at least 18 years old and hold an International Grade A competition licence.
However, they only need to have accumulated 25 Super Licence points in qualifying series over the previous three years, or have completed at least six races in the FIA Formula 2 Championship. This provides a pathway for young talent to gain Formula 1 experience.
Practical experience and licence renewal
Before a Super Licence is granted, a driver must demonstrate practical experience in a Formula 1 car. This involves completing at least 300km in a representative Formula 1 car at racing speeds.
This mileage must be achieved over a maximum period of two days and no more than 180 days prior to the Super Licence application. The test must be certified by the relevant National Sporting Authority (ASN) or completed during a Formula 1 World Championship event.
For existing Formula 1 drivers, the Super Licence must be renewed annually. To qualify for renewal, a driver needs to have driven at least 100km in Free Practice sessions over the preceding three years.
If a driver last held a Super Licence more than three years prior, their renewal is considered at the sole discretion of the FIA. In such cases, the FIA determines if the driver has recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability in single-seater formula cars.
