Rallying
Definition:
A rally is comprised of multiple Point A to Point B timed stages. Cars contain both a driver and a navigator. The best overall combined time across all stages wins the rally. Cars do not compete side-by-side against other cars, like in circuit racing, and instead are released into the timed portion of the stage at regular intervals.
How to get a Rally Driving Licence
Introduction Pack Application
Your first step to obtaining a Rally Licence is to apply for an “Introduction to Motorsport” course pack. This is a €10 registration fee to get you into the system. You will receive a reference number and some materials on how to book your course at one of our two registered rally schools (Waterford and Monaghan) and you will be ready to go!
To book directly, scroll down to the next section!
Rally School
Training Day
When you contact your chosen rally school, they will advise of the available dates in which you can undergo your Rally Training Day. They will provide instruction both in a classroom environment and on-track and prepare you for a test at the end of the day. If you pass the test, they will give you an Assessment Sheet, which can be submitted as part of a licence application. It is possible to fail, so we advise you do not try to book the test on short notice before an event.
Final Rally Licence Application
The final step of the application process. Once you have passed the course at your chosen rally school, you can submit an application to Motorsport Ireland for a Rally National B licence or a Rally Junior licence (depending on age). You will then be eligible to compete at eligible MI-permitted race events. There will be restrictions on your engine size for at the National B and Junior levels, but once you have experience, you can upgrade to a higher grade.
Upgrading Your Licence
When you have completed enough events, you can upgrade your licence to a National A grade or event International grade. Every time you complete five events (not heats), you are eligible to upgrade to the next highest level. If you are a Junior competitor, you will be eligible to upgrade to a National B once you turn 17 years old and hold a full road driving licence. However, you are eligible to hold on to your Junior licence until 18 years old. The change is not immediately mandatory and a crossover choice period does exist.
Licence Grades
International ITC-R
National A
National B
Junior
Start your journey!
You can start your career right here, by ordering your Introdcuction to Motorsport Course pack.
It’s an email with a mandatory reference number for booking your course, information about the training school, and details on how to apply for your first licence.
Rally Navigators
Navigators give pacenotes to the driver. By reading a short-hand description of the corner ahead, the navigator provides an invaluable resource to the driver as he attempts to navigate the twists and turns of the upcoming terrain.
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.
Classes
Throughout the calendar of rally events, you may see different classes of rally car in different events. Each class is subject to stringent technical requirements that separate who you actually compete against on the rally. This allows multiple winners across different classes in addition to the overall winner. No matter what car you enter, you are bound to find a place to compete.
For a full list of classes, we recommend reading Appendix 29.1 of the Motorsport Ireland Yearbook. This gives a full breakdown of each class and its requirements.