Night Navigation
Definition:
Night Navigation events take place on a mix of private ground and public road. Navigation among all terrain is an important aspect of the challenge, while speed is only ever a factor on parts which take place on private ground. The standard rules of the road apply for any section which accesses public roads. The key concept here is the time of day, which must take place entirely during hours where the sun has already set.
How to get a Night Navigation Licence
Development
Many people use competition in Night Navigation as a stepping stone to learn the practical skills necessary for rallying. Both driving and navigating are integral parts of Night Navigation events and can be honed for use on rally stages later in your motorsport career.
Medical Requirements
There is no requirement to provide a doctor’s certificate when applying for a Clubman licence. The only time you may be requested to provide a doctor’s certificate is if you answer “Yes” to one of the questions in Section B of the Medical Self-Declaration, or if you were involved in a serious accident before.
Which licence?
Night Navigation events are covered by the Clubman Road licence. In addition to this licence, you must also have a valid road traffice licence.
Licence Grades
Clubman Road
Rally National B or higher
Navigators
Navigators provide an invaluable resource to the driver as they attempt to navigate the twists and turns of the upcoming terrain. For Night Navigation events, anyone who holds a Rally Navigator licence may also act as a navigator here.
There are far fewer restrictions on obtaining a Rally Navigator licence than any of the driving grades. There is no mandatory training day at a rally school, and the medical requirements are much more simple. Most people can obtain this licence quickly and jump right in the car.
Regulations
While accessible in nature, Night Navigation are held to strict regulations in accordance with Appendix 35 of the Motorsport Ireland Yearbook. This section is titled Endurance Trials, for which the same rules apply to Night Navigation events, with the key difference the availability of natural light.
We recommend reading this section of the yearbook and attending an event in person before applying for a licence.