So, you’re interested in rally car racing? Great! Rally car racing is an exciting and challenging motorsport. Not sure how to get started? We can help. In this blog, we’ll be giving a brief overview of the necessary steps for getting involved in the rally racing scene.
Learn the rules
Rally racing is governed by Rally America, and there are very specific restrictions for the type of car that you can use in an official rally car race. Take time to read through the rule book before you purchase or build your rally car. You don’t want to waste time and money on a car that won’t be allowed! The rule book also contains information on race format, entry requirements, safety, and much more. If you are serious about rally racing, memorizing this book should be high on your priority list.
Purchase your rally car
If you are brand new to rally, it is probably best if you buy a car that is already “log-booked” for rally racing. Not sure what this means? No problem, we can help. In layman’s terms, here is what it means for a car to be log-booked: the car must pass inspection by a National Auto Sport Association (NASA) technician. Once it passes inspection, the car’s log book will be issued. This log-book is your car’s passport into the world of rally car racing. At SCR Performance, we are intimately familiar with the rules and regulations that must be followed in order to pass this inspection. We have the experience to help you choose the best car performance parts to get your car rally-ready in no time. Contact us today to learn more!
Volunteer for an event
Volunteering at a rally event is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into a successful race day. It is also the perfect opportunity to network with other drivers, rally officials, mechanics, and other enthusiasts. Rally racing is a close-knit community, so getting your foot in the door is essential. There are a wide variety of volunteer opportunities available for beginners, and as you gain more experience, even more volunteer positions will open up.
Take a driving course
If you are serious about rally racing, consider enrolling in a rally car school. There are several rally schools across the nation to choose from. This is a great place to learn the fundamentals of race car driving. You may be a great driver on the road, but it is a whole new ballgame behind the wheel of a rally car. Even the best drivers can learn a thing or two from the professional racecar instructors at these schools.
Get your racing license
To compete in officially sanctioned rally racing events, you will need a rally license. Getting your rally license involves signing up as a NASA member, paying your licensing fees, and filling out a medical form. Rally licenses expire on the last day of the calendar year, each year. To get the best value out of your license, purchase it earlier in the year.
Once you have completed the items on this list, you are ready to build your rally team and sign up for a race. For more resources on getting started with rally racing, check out the NASA Rally Sport website. Have fun, and be safe!