The FIA Super Licence is the mandatory permit a driver must hold to compete in Formula 1. It was made significantly harder to obtain after 2016 to ensure only proven talents reach the grid.
To qualify, a driver generally must:
- Be at least 18 years old at the start of their first F1 event.
- Hold a valid road driving licence.
- Have completed a minimum amount of racing in qualifying single-seater categories.
- Pass an FIA theory test on the sporting regulations.
- Most importantly, have accumulated at least 40 superlicence points over the previous three seasons.
Superlicence points are awarded for finishing positions in recognised junior championships. Winning Formula 2 is worth the full 40 points on its own, reflecting its status as the last step before F1. Strong results in Formula 3, IndyCar, Formula E and other top series also contribute. This points system is what ties the whole junior ladder together into a clear route to the top.