You need a valid driver's license. You do not need a racing license, a competition permit or any track qualification to drive on a Grand Prix circuit at a track day.
In short: A normal driver's license is enough. If it was issued outside the EU, Stratos also asks for an International Driving Permit, which Americans get from AAA or AATA. A racing license is only for people who want to compete.
Key facts
- A valid driver's license is all you need to drive on a circuit at a track day. No racing license is required.
- Stratos asks for an International Driving Permit if your license was issued outside the EU.
- In the US, International Driving Permits are issued by AAA and AATA, the two issuers authorized by the US State Department.
- A racing license is only needed to compete in races.
- No track experience is needed at Stratos.
- Helmets and all driving gear are provided.
The three documents people confuse
| Document | What it is | Do you need it for a track day? |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's license | Your everyday license | Yes |
| International Driving Permit (IDP) | A translation booklet that travels with your license | At Stratos, yes, if your license was issued outside the EU |
| Racing license | A competition license from a motorsport authority | No. Only for racing |
The International Driving Permit
- What it is: an official translation of your license. It is valid only together with the license itself.
- Where Americans get it: AAA or AATA, the two issuers authorized by the US State Department.
- When to get it: before you travel. It cannot be issued once you are abroad.
- What to avoid: websites selling "international licenses". Only AAA and AATA issue the real permit in the US.
- Cost and validity: a $20 AAA fee, plus two passport photos, valid for one year.
Other organizers have their own rules. Check before you book.
When you do need a racing license
Only if you want to race: wheel to wheel, with a grid, a start and a result. Each country's motorsport authority issues its own, usually after a course, a medical and a test. A track day involves none of that. Nobody is racing anybody.
How to get into racing covers the path if that is where you want to go.
What to bring to a Stratos event
- Your driver's license
- Your IDP, if your license was issued outside the EU
- Long sleeves, long pants and thin-soled shoes
- Helmets and all driving gear are provided
Experience
No track experience is needed.
Your first track day checklist · See upcoming events
FAQ
Do I need a racing license for a track day?
No. A valid driver's license is enough.
Do Americans need an International Driving Permit to drive on a circuit in Europe?
At Stratos, yes, because the license was issued outside the EU. Get it from AAA or AATA before you travel.
Where do I get an International Driving Permit in the US?
From AAA or AATA, the two issuers authorized by the US State Department.
Can I drive on a Grand Prix circuit with a normal license?
Yes. That is all you need, plus an IDP if your license is from outside the EU.
What is the difference between a track day and a race?
A track day is driving for yourself, with no timing against others. A race is a competition and needs a racing license.
Can I get an International Driving Permit online?
Only through AAA or AATA in the US. Avoid other websites selling "international licenses".
Do I need track experience as well as a license?
No. At Stratos a license is enough, and a coach sits beside you.
Do passengers need a license?
No. Non-driving guests do not need one.
About Stratos
Stratos runs exclusive driving experiences at Europe's greatest Grand Prix circuits, for founders and leaders. Each event privately hires the entire circuit for 15 drivers max, with a supercar fleet, private coaching with professional race drivers, 3 nights of luxury accommodation and 2 full track days. Stratos is invitation-only.