Drivers School

Are you ready to take that step from watching road racing to getting behind the wheel? It’s not an easy process, but SCCA has produced more road racers than anyone, so you’re in good hands.
These are step-by-step instructions and guidance which will help you obtain an SCCA Competition License. If, upon reading this guide, you have questions or special requests, the Licensing Specialists at the SCCA National Office will be happy to help you. Write/Phone/e-mail them at P. O. Box 19400, Topeka, KS 66619-0400 ; 1-800-770-2055, or licensing@scca.com .
It's very important that you become familiar with the General Competition Rules, otherwise known as the GCR. These are the rules that govern SCCA Club Racing. Rule books can be purchased through the SCCA Merchandise Department by sending a check/money order, or by fax using a Visa/MasterCard (785) 232-7213.

Prepare to enter an SCCA Driver School
Check the "Calendar" section of SportsCar magazine, your Region's newsletter, or the schedule below to find the next Driver School in your area. Call the phone number listed next to the event date that interests you and request an event entry form to be sent to you. Some Regions hold Drivers Schools only in the Spring, others conduct them year round; however, you may attend an SCCA Driver School anywhere in the country. To attend an SCCA Driver School, you must arrange for your own properly prepared race car. You will also need approved driving gear, including an SCCA approved helmet. If you do not have a race car, you will have to rent or lease one in order to attend a school. Renting allows you to concentrate on driving and also permits you to consider which class best fits your goals before you buy a car. Rental prices generally range from $500 - $2,000 depending on the car type. Contact your local Region's Competition Chairman for assistance in obtaining a rented vehicle.

READ AND BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE GCR BEFORE your first school, paying special attention to the section on Flags! This is where you'll find information about specific vehicles as well as equipment requirements and standards.


Driver School Checklist
Upon receipt of your event entry packet, READ ALL the information provided. Most importantly, note the rules and regulations specific to the event and the race track. Complete your entry form in its entirety and return it to the person listed. Make absolutely certain your personal driving equipment, (i.e., Helmet, Driving Suit, Gloves/Shoes, etc.) is in good order, and that your car is race-ready BEFORE the first on-track sessions. Be punctual for your classroom sessions. These are mandatory.
Make every effort to have a qualified mechanic on hand to ensure your car runs properly, as you successfully must complete all the on-track sessions in order to get credit for the school.

Regional Competition License

Upon completion of two Driver Schools and two Regional Races on your Novice Permit, you are eligible to receive an SCCA Regional Competition License. You have two years from the date of issue to complete the Novice requirements. Once the requirements are met, send your completed Novice Permit, signed off by the event Chief Steward at your second Regional race; a copy of your Physical Exam; and a fee to the Central Licensing Department. You will soon be the proud owner of a Regional Competition License.

After successfully completing four Regional events, you may upgrade to a National Competition License.

National Events

SCCA Club Racing “National” events are held each year to determine Divisional point champions and who qualifies for the SCCA National Championship Runoffs.
Each year, approximately 65-70 Nationals are held, broken into the eight divisions, with each division running a minimum of six events. Only drivers with a National-grade license may compete, which means a requirement of Driver’s Schools and Regionals must be met.

There are well over 25 separate classes that compete in SCCA National events, earning points toward their respective Divisional Championship. Drivers running at least four Nationals (finishing at least three) who finish in the top 10 in their respective Divisional point championship are eligible to compete in the Runoffs®.

"National" is the top grade of SCCA Club Racing event nationwide, and many of these events are high in profile, drawing thousands of fans to watch the competition.