ARSCCA

Novice Advice

New to autocross? Start here.

Welcome to autocross. This page covers everything you need to show up to your first event prepared and have a good time.

Vehicle Requirements

Your car must pass the ARSCCA tech inspection. The main criterion is simple: your car must be wider than it is tall and in good mechanical condition. Karts, family sedans, trucks, sports cars, dedicated race cars — they're all welcome as long as they're safe.

See the FAQ for the full tech inspection checklist.

Registering

All event sign-ups happen on MotorsportReg. Registration closes at 8:00 AM on event day (except Test And Tune and Driver's School events, which have different deadlines).

When registering, you'll pick a class and a car number. If you're sharing the car with a co-driver, they will use your number plus 100 (e.g. driver 27, co-driver 127).

First-Event Checklist

Before driving, you'll need to:

  1. Remove loose items from your car (floor mats, change, water bottles, etc.).
  2. Sign waivers and pick up a wristband at the SCCA van.
  3. Get your car inspected and receive a tech sticker.
  4. Walk the course with an experienced driver who can explain the layout.
  5. Attend the mandatory drivers' meeting.

What to Expect

Autocross is a high-skill sport and your learning curve will be very steep at the beginning. Focus on incremental improvement, not competing with experienced drivers. Every run is a chance to learn something.

This is also a volunteer-driven sport — when you're not driving, you'll be working a corner, timing, or helping run the event. That's the deal, and it's how everything stays affordable.

What to Bring

  • A helmet (Snell or SA-rated; motorcycle helmets are OK if Snell-certified — see the FAQ)
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Sunscreen, water, snacks
  • Lunch (especially at Stuttgart — see Site Info)
  • A folding chair or canopy if you have one

Ask Questions

Experienced drivers are universally happy to help. Find someone in your class, ask them to walk the course with you, and ask for feedback after your runs. It's the fastest way to get better.