What about the co-driver?

Licence-wise, you can apply to the MSA for a Navigators licence, without going through any of the schools and tests that the driver has to do; just apply on the MSA Licence Application form and pay the prescribed fee.

But what makes a good co-driver? First the ability to deal with car sickness – no would be world champion driver wants you bringing up your tea all over the maps and road books – so if you get sick on a bus ride then co-driving isn’t for you! Next you must be able to tell the time, add up subtract in minutes and seconds, because that will be one of your key roles to get the car and driver to every time control, on time, to the exact minute. Good map reading skills are a real positive, and the ability to get on with people from all walks of life will be invaluable; you are the person who will be dealing face to face with marshals, organisers, stewards and the like, so if you want things done be nice and be positive!

Like the driver you will need all your own safety equipment – overalls, helmet, boots gloves etc – and you will need a map bag, map light, maps, clip boards, pens, pencils; you will be carrying around a veritable office.

There is no hard and fast rule about how much the co-driver contributes to the expense of entering an event. When you are a novice expect to contribute up to fifty percent…but when you become one of the UK’s top co-drivers you may be pleasantly surprised how little – if anything- you will be asked to pay!


· How do I get my rally licence?
· What equipment do I need?
· Which championship is right for me?
· What type of rally car?
· Do I rent or buy a rally car?
· Do I run it myself or go to a team?
· How do I improve my skills?
· How do I get sponsorship?
· What about the co-driver/navigator?
· What can I put back into the sport?
· Where can I find out more?