The aim of Autotests are to negotiate as quickly as possible a memorised, low-speed course without hitting any markers – it is all about car control.

How do Autotests work?

Drivers compete on courses – usually on tarmac or grass areas such as car parks or smooth fields – marked out by plastic pylons or cones. They tackle a number of tests, with two attempts at each. The driver with the lowest accumulated time is the winner, although penalties are incurred for hitting cones, failing to stop on a line, or for taking the wrong route.

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So how do I start?

Autotests are an affordable form of motorsport, with numerous events every weekend all over the country. Club memberships start from?￡15/year and entry fees from ￡20 for an evening event and ￡30 for a full-day event. You’ll need to be at least 16 years old to compete. You will need to?join your local club?and apply for your free?RS Clubman Licence. Then, of course, you will need a car…

What kind of car do I need?

Most people start off in their road cars; small hatchbacks have proved popular and competitive, but any car can compete in an Autotest.

If Autotests seem a little daunting and you would rather have a go at something simpler to start with, consider AutoSOLOs, which are much the same but don’t require any reversing, generally use simpler course layouts and are only open to standard road cars, which must be driven to and from the event.

What equipment do I need?

Because Autotests are low-speed events you don’t need special safety gear. Whilst they may be low speed, they are still highly competitive and leave thousands of competitors all over the country smiling.

Tyre wear is likely to be experienced on an autotest (particularly a tarmac event) and therefore it is highly recommended to take a spare set of wheels and tyres with you to ensure you can drive home legally afterwards.

Where can I find technical regulations for Autotests?

Technical regulations Autotests are found in chapter 19 in the National Competition Rules.

What protective equipment do I need to wear?

There are no personal protective equipment requirements for Autotests.