Great news!  Maritime Safety Queensland has approved updated and extended licensing exemptions for younger drivers at APBA sanctioned events.  There have been exemptions in place for J2 and J3 for many years, but these have now been extended to 25hp and Formula 4 classes (with some conditions).  Younger drivers competing at APBA sanctioned events are now exempt from marine licence requirements for:

• J2 – age 10-15, max 10 hp
• J3 – age 12 to 15, max 15 hp
• 25 hp & F4 – 14 or 15 years old, must have competed in J3 for at least 2 years.

The usual racing and safety rules, specific junior driver briefings and assessment of junior drivers before competing continue to apply.

This is an excellent outcome for growing the sport and allowing younger people to stay engaged and develop their driving skills in a safe manner.  Note that these exemptions only apply during APBA sanctioned events, so outside these events the usual licensing requirements apply.

The APBA Queensland State Council recognises and thanks the efforts of Maritime Safety Queensland in working through this process.