How to Race an Indy Car

Indy cars, which are open-wheeled race cars used in the Indianapolis 500, require years of experience to fully master because of their potential for incredible speeds and relative lack of safety features. By following the appropriate training routine under strict supervision, you can learn to race an Indy car.

Things You'll Need

  • Indy car
  • Closed race track
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider gaining some racing experience with karts, midget racers or even stock cars before attempting to learn how to drive an Indy car. Most professional racers agree that this is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with how to maneuver a vehicle on a racetrack, learning how to interact with other drivers as well.

    • 2

      Take a ride in an Indy car to determine how comfortable you feel dealing with the pressure of the g-forces you will experience. Many driving and racing schools offer programs in which you can take a ride as a passenger in specially modified cars used in the Indy 500 or Formula-1 racing.

    • 3

      Enroll in a driving school that will teach you how to race an Indy car. Many of these schools last just one day, allowing you to take several laps around a closed course after you have passed the course. In addition, many of these schools are owned or sponsored by professional drivers who will be able to give you tips and insight into how to become a better driver.

    • 4

      Visit a track on which Indy cars are raced, and observe as much as possible. Talk to the drivers about the steps they took to become professional racecar drivers. Speak with crew members, as they can also give you plenty of insight into the world of Indy racing.

    • 5

      Decide whether you want to pursue a career in racing Indy cars. For many people, this path takes years of hard work and experience, especially considering the high cost of these cars. You will have to enroll in a driving school, and you may need to perform volunteer work in the racing field in order to develop the contacts you will need to become a professional Indy car racer.