Get ready for an exciting day of Indy 500 qualifying at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Sunday, May 18, 2025, for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. This guide covers the schedule, tickets, parking, and more to help you plan your visit to the Armed Forces Qualifying event. Don’t miss the high-speed action at the Racing Capital of the World!
Indy 500 Qualifying Schedule (All Times Local)
- 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Public gates open
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Practice
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Top 12 Qualifying participants
- 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Last Chance Qualifying participants
- 4:05 PM: Top 12 Qualifying
- 5:15 PM – 6:15 PM: Last Chance Qualifying
- 6:25 PM: Firestone Fast Six Qualifying
Tip: Arrive early to grab the best spots for watching the Indy 500 qualifying sessions!
Tickets for Indy 500 Armed Forces Qualifying
- General Admission: $35
- Includes access to IMS infield viewing mounds and first-come, first-served grandstand seating.
- Free Entry for military personnel with valid ID in honor of Armed Forces Day.
- Children 15 and under admitted free with a paying adult.
- Note: A separate ticket is required for each day.
Buy tickets online at IMS.com to avoid lines.
Public Gates at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
- Open: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Gates: Gate 1, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 4, Gate 6S, Gate 7, Gate 7S, Gate 9, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A
Tip: Enter through Gate 1 or Gate 2 for quick access to prime viewing areas.
Parking at IMS
- Free Parking: Turn 3, Lot 7 (North 40)
- Free ADA Parking: West Museum Lot, Flag Lot, Tower Lot, Northwest Gravel Lot, Lot 7 (North 40)
- Free Motorcycle Parking: South Carousel Lot
- Paid Parking:
- $10: Lot 2, Main Gate Lot, Lot 3P
- $20: Gate 1
- Paid ADA Parking:
- $10: Lot 2, Lot 3P
- $20: Gate 1 Lot
Cashless Payments at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
IMS is a cashless facility. Accepted payment methods include:
- Debit/credit cards
- Tap-to-pay phone payments
- Cash-to-Card Machines: Convert cash to a temporary debit card at:
- IMS Museum
- Pagoda Plaza
- Turn 1 (near concessions stand 7)
These cards can be used anywhere Mastercard/Visa debit cards are accepted.
Tip: Set up a digital wallet for quick purchases at food and merchandise stands.
IMS Museum During Indy 500 Qualifying
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tickets:
- General: $25
- Seniors (55+): $23
- Military (active/former): $18
Purchase museum tickets at IMSMuseum.org.
Note: Gate admission is required in addition to museum admission.
Why You Should Attend Indy 500 Armed Forces Qualifying
The Armed Forces Qualifying is a thrilling event for motorsport fans and families. Watch top drivers compete for their spot in the Indianapolis 500, enjoy family-friendly activities, and celebrate military personnel with free admission. With affordable tickets, free parking options, and an electric atmosphere, this is a can’t-miss Indy 500 event.
Get Your Tickets: Buy Indy 500 qualifying tickets now at IMS.com and experience the excitement of the 109th Indianapolis 500!
