Article C12.5.1
Entry and Exit
Technical Regulations
Article C12.5.1
Entry and Exit
Chapter: C12
In Simple Terms
Drivers must be able to quickly get out of their car in an emergency without removing anything except the steering wheel and headrest. They need to be able to remove the steering wheel and exit the cockpit in 7 seconds, then put the steering wheel back in 12 seconds total.
- Driver must exit the cockpit without opening doors or removing car parts (except steering wheel and headrest)
- Must complete exit with steering wheel removed within 7 seconds from normal seating position
- Total time to remove steering wheel and exit, then replace it, must not exceed 12 seconds
- This is tested while wearing full safety gear and harness to ensure real emergency conditions
Official FIA Text
The driver must be able to enter and get out of the Cockpit without it being necessary to open a door or remove any part of the car other than the steering wheel or the headrest. From the normal seating position, with the safety harness fastened and whilst wearing the usual driving equipment, the driver must be able to remove the steering wheel and get out of the car within 7 seconds and then replace the steering wheel in a total of 12 seconds.
cockpit exitsteering wheel removalemergency evacuationdriver safety7 seconds
2026 Season Regulations