Superlicense Points

Superlicense points are scores that racing drivers earn based on their performance in various junior racing championships, which they must accumulate to qualify for permission to compete in Formula 1.

Think of superlicense points like credits you need to graduate from school. Just as students earn credits by passing classes, racing drivers earn these points by finishing well in specific racing series approved by the FIA (the organization that governs international motorsport). The better a driver finishes in a championship, the more points they receive.

To race in Formula 1, drivers need to collect at least 40 superlicense points within a three-year period. This requirement exists to ensure that only experienced and skilled drivers make it to F1, which is considered the highest level of single-seater racing. The system was introduced to prevent inexperienced drivers from entering F1 too early, which could be dangerous for everyone on track.

Different racing championships award different amounts of points based on their competitiveness and relevance to F1. For example, winning the Formula 2 championship (the main feeder series to F1) earns a driver the full 40 points needed. Winning Formula 3 earns 30 points, while winning IndyCar in America also grants 40 points. Even finishing in the top positions of these championships earns points—second place in Formula 2 gives 30 points, third place gives 20 points, and so on down the rankings.

Drivers can also earn superlicense points in smaller amounts through other methods. Participating in Formula 1 practice sessions allows drivers to earn one point per race weekend (up to 10 points maximum) if they complete at least 100 kilometers of running. Drivers who complete an entire championship season without receiving any penalty points for rule violations receive a bonus of two additional superlicense points as a reward for clean driving.

The superlicense points are just one part of getting permission to race in F1. Drivers must also be at least 18 years old, hold a regular road driving license, pass a theory test about F1 rules, and complete at least 300 kilometers of testing in a modern F1 car. They also need to have completed at least 80 percent of two seasons in a championship that awards superlicense points, proving they have consistent experience.

The FIA can make exceptions in special circumstances. If a driver has earned at least 30 points but couldn't reach 40 due to situations beyond their control, the FIA may still grant them a superlicense. This flexibility ensures that talented drivers aren't unfairly blocked from F1 due to unusual circumstances.

It's important not to confuse superlicense points with penalty points. Penalty points are negative marks drivers receive on their superlicense for breaking rules during F1 races. If a driver accumulates 12 penalty points within 12 months, they receive a one-race ban. These are completely separate from the superlicense points needed to qualify for F1 in the first place.