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How to Buy Tracks in Iracing

New to iRacing? Learn how to buy tracks in iRacing, step by step. Clear tips for iRacing beginners to avoid overspending and race the series you love fast.

If you’ve tried to join a race and got blocked by “content not owned,” you’re not alone. This trips up a lot of iRacing beginners. Take a breath—once you see how iRacing works, buying only what you need becomes simple and budget-friendly.

Quick Answer: how to buy tracks in iracing

You buy tracks through the iRacing UI (Store tab) or directly from any series page using “Purchase Missing Content.” Add the track(s) to your cart, check out, then download and update. Pro move: buy in small bundles to trigger volume discounts and stick to tracks used in your chosen series.

Simple Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Pick your series first
    Open the UI, go to Go Racing > Series, and choose what you want to run this season. This shows exactly which tracks you’ll need.

  2. Use “Purchase Missing Content”
    On the series page, click the shopping cart or “Purchase Missing Content.” This filters only the tracks you don’t own—perfect for anyone new to iRacing.

  3. Or shop via Store > Tracks
    Prefer browsing? Go Store > Tracks. Use filters (oval/road/short/long) and check the track’s configurations match your series.

  4. Save with smart timing
    iRacing offers volume discounts when you buy multiple items at once. Group a few planned tracks to save money. Big sales also pop up seasonally.

  5. Install and verify
    After purchase, let the iRacing updater download the track. Then join a Test or Practice session in that series to confirm everything’s installed.

Why This Matters for Beginners

Here’s the simple truth: you don’t need every track. iRacing is built so you buy the content that fits your goals. That’s how iRacing works. If you’re new to iRacing, start with rookie content and one series, then acquire only the tracks that appear on that 12‑week schedule. This keeps costs down and gets you racing more, shopping less. If you’re unsure, a quick question in an iRacing Discord community can save you from buying the wrong thing.

Common Mistakes (and Easy Fixes)

  • Buying randomly without a plan
    Fix: Pick a series first, then buy only the tracks required for that schedule.

  • Ignoring discounts
    Fix: Bundle purchases to trigger volume discounts and watch for seasonal sales.

  • Forgetting to install updates
    Fix: After purchase, run the updater and confirm the track is present before race day.

FAQs

  • Do I need to buy every track?
    No. Buy the tracks used by the series you actually plan to race. You can still join hosted sessions on tracks you own even if they’re not on your series schedule.

  • Is the website different from the in-game Store?
    Functionally, no. Most iRacing beginners find the in-game “Purchase Missing Content” button on the series page fastest and safest.

  • Are there discounts or sales?
    Yes. iRacing offers volume discounts when buying multiple items in one order, and there are occasional seasonal sales. Plan purchases around these for easy savings.

  • Will I pay again for updates?
    Routine updates to existing content are included. If a brand-new version of a track is released, it’s clearly listed as separate content.

Final Takeaways

Start with your target series, buy only what you need, and use “Purchase Missing Content” to keep it effortless. That’s the most reliable iRacing tip for smart spending. Next session, open your chosen series, grab the next track on the schedule, install, and hop into Practice. Confidence comes fast once you’re turning laps. If you’re unsure, ask in an iRacing Discord—someone’s already solved your exact question.