If you’re new to sim racing or looking to join the most competitive online racing platform, iRacing is the gold standard. It’s used by amateurs, streamers, and even professional drivers for its realism, physics, and structured multiplayer ecosystem.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started—from signing up to hitting the track for your first official race. Whether you’re completely new or coming from another sim like Assetto Corsa, this will get you up to speed quickly.
Step 1: Create an iRacing Account
Head over to www.iracing.com and create an account.
Tips:
- Look for discount codes or free trial offers. iRacing frequently runs promotions for new users (e.g., 3 months for $5).
- Use a valid email address—you’ll receive your credentials and setup info there.
Step 2: Install the iRacing Software
After signing up:
- Log in to your member dashboard.
- Download and install the iRacing UI launcher.
- Follow the prompts to install content (base tracks and cars).
Make sure your PC meets the minimum specs:
- Windows 10/11 64-bit
- Mid-range GPU (GTX 1060 or higher recommended)
- SSD for faster loading
- 8GB+ RAM
Tip: Installing iRacing on an SSD significantly reduces loading times.
Step 3: Set Up Your Wheel and Pedals
iRacing supports a wide range of racing hardware:
- Recommended for beginners: Logitech G29/G920, Thrustmaster T248, Moza R3 Bundle
- Mid-range and up: Fanatec CSL DD, Moza R9, Simucube 2
Calibration:
- Go to Options > Controls
- Set up your steering, throttle, brake, and clutch inputs
- Configure button bindings for pit limiter, black box, and look left/right
Pro Tip: Start with linear pedal settings and gradually adjust brake force curve as you improve.
Step 4: Understand the License System
iRacing’s structure is built on safety and progression.
License Classes:
- Rookie
- D, C, B, A
- Pro (invitation-only)
Your Safety Rating (SR) measures clean driving:
- Gain SR by avoiding incidents and finishing races
- Lose SR from off-tracks, contact, and spins
Your iRating measures skill level:
- Affects split placement in official races
- Starts after your first few races in Rookie
Focus on clean laps over speed early on—SR is the key to progression.
Step 5: Start with a Test Drive or AI Race
Before jumping into an official session:
- Try Test Drive mode with the MX-5 Cup car or Street Stock on a short circuit like Lime Rock or Charlotte Legends Oval.
- Run AI Races for practice without pressure. These don’t affect your license.
Use this time to:
- Get used to braking points and throttle control
- Experiment with FOV (Field of View) settings
- Map black box controls and camera views
Step 6: Run Your First Official Race
Once you’re comfortable:
- Join a Rookie Series (e.g., Global MX-5 Cup, Street Stock Series)
- Check the Schedule to see when the next race starts (usually every hour)
- Register 5–10 minutes early
Race Tips:
- Qualify if you want a clean starting spot, or start from the back to stay out of trouble
- Keep your first races clean—avoid 4x penalties from contact or off-tracks
- Finish the race. Even last place can earn SR if you drive clean
Step 7: Review Your Replays and Progress
iRacing automatically saves every session replay.
Use the Replay Tool to:
- Watch your braking and turning points
- Compare your lines to faster drivers in the same session
Use your Results Page to:
- Monitor Safety Rating and iRating changes
- Track incident points and lap times
Optional: Install Helpful Tools
Enhance your iRacing experience with these free or low-cost tools:
- SimHub: For dash overlays and telemetry on secondary screens
- VRS (Virtual Racing School): Free setups and data packs
- Trading Paints: Custom liveries
- Crew Chief: Voice spotter and in-race data feedback
Step 8: Practice, Improve, and Graduate from Rookie
To move up from Rookie:
- Reach a 3.0 SR and complete 4 official races
- You’ll be promoted to D Class, unlocking more cars and series
Practice Goals:
- Hit 10 clean laps in a row without incident
- Run race-length stints to improve consistency
- Use Time Attack mode to compare your pace
Pro Tip: Racing smart will always beat racing reckless. Patience and awareness are your best tools.
Final Thoughts: Welcome to the Grid
iRacing has one of the steepest learning curves—but also the most rewarding and competitive experience in sim racing.
With a stable setup, clean racing habits, and commitment to learning, you’ll quickly see progress. Don’t stress over iRating in the beginning. Focus on:
- Clean laps
- Learning racecraft
- Understanding car behavior
And most importantly—enjoy the journey.
Next Steps: