FAQs Archive - Houston SCCA

Q: I'm new to autocross; do I have to compete against the experienced drivers?

The short answer is no. We have a Novice program specifically tailored to newcomers to the sport. As a Novice, you will be competing against other novices. Since participants in the Novice program will typically be driving cars that would fall into different open classes, the times are adjusted to equalize the differences in performance. Competitors may run in the Novice class for 3 events, or until they win the class at a Regional event. After that, they would move to their assigned open class. The 3 event rule is flexible; the specific number of events may be increased at the discretion of the Chief of Rookies. For more information on the Novice program, see Section 3 of the Solo Operations Manual .

Q: What class does my car belong in?

Car classing can be a bit daunting, especially for newcomers to the sport. To get started, there is an overview of the major class categories on the Rules/Classes page on this web site. It is strongly suggested that you download the latest version of the Solo rule book from this page . Start with Appendix A and locate your car's make and model. Some cars may be listed in more than one class, depending on what modifications have been made. When in doubt, consult Sections 13 through 18 for more detail regarding what modifications are allowed in a particular class. The guideline for interpreting the rules is this: if the rules don't explicitly state that uou can make a particular modification, you can't .

Q: What kind of helmet do I need?

From section 4.3.1 of the SCCA Solo Rules: 4.3.1 Helmets Helmets meeting the following standards must be worn while on course: Snell Memorial Foundation standards EA 2016, SA2020, SA2015, SA2010, SAH2010, M2020D, M2020R, M2015, M2010, K2020, K2015, K2010; SFI standards 31.1/2020, 31.1/2015, 31.1/2010, 41.1/2020, 41.1/2015, 41.1/2010; FIA standards 8859-2020, 8860-2018, 8860-2018-ABP, 8859-2015, 8860-2010. Full face or modular helmets shall be worn while competing in an open- wheel car, formula car, or kart. Face shield, goggles, or similar face protec- tion (conventional eyeglasses are not sufficient) shall be worn while com- peting in any other vehicle with less than the standard-size windshield. For maximum protection, helmets must fit securely and should provide adequate peripheral vision. The chin strap must be securely fastened. Loaner helmets should be available to vehicle occupants not having their own. Helmets sold in the United States typically have a Snell sticker affixed to the inside of the shell, beneath the helmet lining. DOT-approved helmets are not allowed. The sticker will look like one of the following: 2022 Autocross Helmet Certification Decals

Q: Can two drivers compete with the same vehicle?

Yes, subject to the following considerations: Each driver should register separately on motorsportreg.com , using a different number. Whichever driver brings the vehicle to grid will stage in the two-driver line, as directed by the grid worker. As an aid to the grid worker, it is helpful for the driver to hold up two fingers to indicate that they are in a two-driver vehicle. It is the responsibility of both drivers to ensure that the correct numbers are displayed on the car for whomever is driving for a particular run. When the heat begins, all of the two-driver vehicles will take one run with one of the two drivers. Then, half of the single-driver vehicles will take their runs. At this point, the two-driver vehicles will run again with the second driver, followed by the remainder of the single-driver vehicles. This process repeats until all timed runs have been completed. It is at the discretion of the drivers whether they want to alternate for each run, one driver take all of their runs before switching drivers, or any variation thereof.

Q: How can I get more runs at an event?

Double Entries are allowed on a limited basis to members. There is no pre-registration for double entry. Communicate your interest in double entry to the worker chief at registration. DB entries are for timed runs only and do not count towards any trophies, points, etc. The number of Double Entries (DB) allowed at each Regional event is solely at the discretion of the Autocross RE. The Autocross RE may disallow all DB entries at any regional event. Pricing will be as voted on by the Autocross committee. Currently it is set at $20. For split session days: the entrant must run their normal class in the first session of the event and make the DB runs in the second session. All DB entrants will work at least once in each session and may be required to assist in pick-up at the conclusion of the event at the discretion of the DB organizer. For single session days: a DB entrant will perform their DB runs in the same run heat in which they perform their competition runs. The entrant will perform their competition runs, replace their competition class letters with DB “class letters”, and then perform their DB runs. They will line up in the double driver line and perform all their runs consecutively in sequence with the double drivers. A second work assignment or help with tear down is at the discretion of the DB organizer. If there are two drivers competing in the same car, in the same class, they will be ineligible for participating in DB.

Q: Are spectators allowed?

Yes. There is no charge for spectating. Everybody on site must sign the waiver and wear a wristband. Minor (under 18) spectators must have at least one parent’s (or legal guardian’s) signature witnessed by an SCCA member. Minors who wish to compete require signatures from both parents or guardians. Minor releases are now to be completed online through my.scca.com . Information for completing all electronic waivers can be found here .