FIA condemns abuse after Colapinto penalty row
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FIA Super Licence
Fictional photo of a Super License
The FIA Super Licence is the credential every Formula 1 driver must hold to be allowed to race in a Grand Prix. It is awarded on a points-based system introduced in 2016 that considers junior category results, minimum age, minimum mileage, and a set of ethical and legal criteria. Without it, no driver, no matter how quick, can turn a wheel in an F1 session.
What is the FIA Super Licence?
The Super Licence is the FIA racing licence that authorises a driver to compete in Formula 1. It sits at the top of the FIA licence pyramid, above categories like F2, F3, F4 and karting-level credentials. Every F1 driver must hold a valid Super Licence for the current season, and it is renewed annually subject to continuing eligibility.
The 40-point qualification system
Since the 2016 season, drivers need 40 accumulated Super Licence points earned across their junior racing career in the three seasons before their F1 debut. Points are awarded by finishing position in the FIA-recognised feeder categories: Formula 2 winners receive 40 points in a single hit, Formula 3 winners around 30, Formula E podiums have their own scale, and so on.
Additional requirements
- minimum age of 18 at the time of the driver's first F1 session;
- a full car driving licence issued by their country of residence;
- at least 300 kilometres in a current F1 car in testing before their first Grand Prix;
- completion of an FIA ethics and regulations examination;
- a clean record of good driver conduct in previous categories.
Age exceptions and Super Licence controversy
The 18-year minimum age has been contested repeatedly. Max Verstappen made his F1 debut with Toro Rosso at 17 in 2015, before the current rules took effect. The FIA introduced the 18 minimum after his debut year, and there has been continuous discussion about lowering it again for exceptional talents. Kimi Antonelli's 2025 debut required extensive licensing conversations, though he was 18 by the season opener.
Latest Super Licence news
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Frequently asked questions about the Super Licence
What is the FIA Super Licence?
The Super Licence is the credential every F1 driver must hold to compete in Grand Prix racing. It sits at the top of the FIA licence pyramid.
How does a driver earn a Super Licence?
By accumulating 40 Super Licence points across their junior racing career, reaching the 18-year minimum age, holding a full car driving licence, and completing at least 300 km in an F1 car in testing.
Who introduced the points-based Super Licence system?
The FIA introduced the current system for the 2016 season, in part as a response to Max Verstappen's F1 debut at 17.
Can a driver under 18 hold a Super Licence?
Not under the current rules. The FIA sets 18 as the minimum age for a first F1 session.
How many points do F2 and F3 winners receive?
Formula 2 winners currently receive 40 Super Licence points, satisfying the full requirement in one season. Formula 3 winners currently receive 30 points.
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