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How to Use Race Labs With Iracing

Clear guide for iRacing drivers on using RaceLab overlays. Install, set up fuel/relative fast, and fix common problems so you can get back on track quickly.

If you’re stuck on how to use race labs with iracing, the short answer is: install the RaceLab app, launch iRacing, pick an overlay layout, and place the widgets you want (fuel, relative, delta). This guide shows exactly where to click and how to fix common “nothing shows up” problems.

Quick Answer: how to use race labs with iracing

Download RaceLab from racelab.app, install it, open iRacing, then use RaceLab’s layout editor to add and position overlays (Fuel, Relative, Delta). Save the layout, bind a toggle hotkey, and you’re done.

What’s Really Going On

RaceLab is an overlay and data tool that reads iRacing’s live info and shows it on screen: gaps, fuel needed, best lap delta, and more. Most issues come from one of three things:

  • The overlay isn’t turned on or placed.
  • iRacing’s display mode hides overlays.
  • RaceLab didn’t connect to the sim session.

Fixing these is usually just a few settings and one quick layout pass.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Install RaceLab

    • Go to racelab.app, download the installer, and run it. Close iRacing before installing.

  2. Start everything in the right order

    • Open RaceLab first. Then launch iRacing and join a Test or Practice session. In RaceLab, look for a “Connected” or similar status.

  3. Pick a layout and widgets

    • In RaceLab, open the layout/editor mode. Add the widgets you want: Relative (cars around you), Fuel (how much to add/remaining), Delta (gain/loss vs best), Standings.

  4. Position and size overlays

    • Drag each widget to a clear spot. Keep eyes-up info (Relative, Delta) near the top-center, and Fuel near the bottom. Click Save/Apply.

  5. Set a toggle hotkey

    • In RaceLab, set a Show/Hide overlay key (e.g., F10). Test it in-session to make sure the overlays appear and disappear.

  6. Calibrate fuel quickly

    • Run 3–5 clean laps so RaceLab learns your fuel burn. Enter your race length (laps or minutes) in the Fuel widget so it can calculate how much to add.

  7. Use the right display mode

    • In iRacing’s graphics settings, use Borderless Windowed (or Windowed) if overlays don’t show in exclusive fullscreen.

Extra Tips / Checklist

  • Turn off duplicate iRacing HUD elements (e.g., default Relative) if RaceLab replaces them to reduce clutter.
  • Make profiles per car/series so sprint vs endurance layouts don’t fight each other.
  • Keep fonts large and avoid blocking black boxes and pit prompts.
  • If overlays flicker or your FPS drops, use fewer widgets and avoid heavy themes.
  • VR: ensure the mirror window is visible and sized properly; position widgets where they won’t sit in the middle of your view.

FAQs

  • Why aren’t my RaceLab overlays showing?

    • Check the toggle hotkey, make sure RaceLab says “Connected,” use Borderless Windowed, and ensure the widgets are placed and saved.

  • Is RaceLab free?

    • Core overlays are free. Some advanced themes/features require a paid plan, but you can get started without paying.

  • Does RaceLab work in VR?

    • Yes. It uses the mirror window. Keep the mirror visible and adjust widget positions so they don’t block your main view.

  • Will RaceLab hurt my FPS?

    • Minimal impact with a few widgets. If frames drop, reduce the number of widgets and effects, and close other apps.

Short Wrap-Up

Using RaceLab with iRacing is mostly install, connect, place widgets, and save. If overlays don’t appear, switch to Borderless Windowed and verify the toggle hotkey. Start with Fuel, Relative, and Delta—then refine your layout after a short practice run.