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How to Join a Hosted Session in Iracing

Clear steps for how to join a hosted session in iRacing. Learn where to click, what you need to own, and how to fix common join errors. For sim racers, fast.

If you’re stuck on how to join a hosted session in iracing, here’s the short version: open the iRacing UI, go to Hosted, pick a session, register, then click Join. This guide shows exactly where to click and how to fix common blockers so you can get on track fast.

Quick Answer: how to join a hosted session in iracing

Open the iRacing UI, select Hosted on the left, find the session, make sure you own/have installed the car and track, register, enter a password if needed, then click Join when it’s ready.

What’s Really Going On

Hosted sessions are private or public races created by other users. They don’t affect Safety Rating (SR) or iRating—so no rating risk, just racing. To join, you must usually own and have installed the car and track. Some hosts may enable special options that let drivers join without owning everything, but that isn’t guaranteed. Sessions can be open or password-protected, and some fill up fast.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Launch the iRacing UI and log in
  • On the left sidebar, click Hosted. If you don’t see it, scroll or expand the menu.
  1. Find the right session
  • Use filters (car, track, fixed/open setup, friends) or the search box. Click the session row to view details.
  1. Check requirements
  • If you’re missing content, you’ll see Buy or Download/Install. Install updates first. If there’s a lock icon, you’ll need the password from the host.
  1. Register
  • Click Register. For team events, select your team first. If Register is greyed out, the session might be full, not yet open, or you’re still missing content.
  1. Join the server
  • When Join lights up (the server is live), click Join. The sim will launch and load the car/track.
  1. Get ready in-session
  • Pick your car (for multi-class), confirm options, and enter the session. Use the Garage if you want to tweak your iRacing setup. Grid up or head to the pits when allowed.

Extra Tips / Checklist

  • Install content early: Download the car and track before the session start to avoid timeouts.
  • Passwords matter: A wrong or missing password blocks entry even if everything else is correct.
  • Session full? Waitlist yourself: Keep the window open—spots sometimes free up just before launch.
  • Match the build: If iRacing updated, restart the UI and let it patch before joining.
  • Network stability: Close heavy downloads/streams, and ensure your firewall allows iRacing to connect.

FAQs

  • Do I need to own the car and track?
    Usually yes. If you’re missing either, you’ll see prompts to buy or install. Some hosts may enable options that let you join without all content, but don’t count on it.

  • Why is the Register or Join button greyed out?
    Common reasons: session not open yet, server not spawned, session full, missing content, or you’re on the wrong build. Install updates and refresh the Hosted list.

  • Can I join mid-race?
    Often yes, but it’s up to the host settings. You might be limited to practice/warmup or start from the pits if you join late.

  • Will SR or iRating change in hosted sessions?
    No. Hosted sessions don’t affect SR or iRating. They’re great for practice, testing iRacing settings, and fun races without rating pressure.

Short Wrap-Up

To recap: Hosted > find session > meet content/password requirements > Register > Join. If something blocks you, it’s usually missing content, a full server, or a simple UI refresh. Get those sorted and you’ll be racing in minutes.