STEP 1 – Join the SCCA
Joining the SCCA has never been easier, simply click here.
Next, you’ll need to go visit your doctor for a sports physical. You can download that form, as well as the Novice Permit form. If you are 14-18 years old and want to drive competitively or work in a hot area, you’ll need to complete one of the Minor Waiver forms. These are available for download, or you can contact SCCA to have one mailed to you. If you are under 21 and live in Alabama, Nebraska, or Wyoming, you will also need to complete one of the Minor Waiver forms. *NOTE: All waiver forms must be printed in COLOR.
STEP 2 – Submit your Paperwork
Submit the Novice Permit Application with all of the required documents and Novice Permit fee to the SCCA Member Services Department at 6620 SE Dwight St. Topeka, KS 66619; OR you may obtain your Novice Permit through your local Region's licensing representative (see SCCA Divisions/Regions maps for links to Region Web sites). NOTE: If you are 14-17 years of age, you must apply for all Competition Licenses through the SCCA Member Services Department at the National Office. The Novice Permit, often referred to as a "logbook," allows you to enter an SCCA Driver School and later, SCCA Regional Club Racing events. Anyone 14 years and older, who has a Motor Vehicle Operators license or previous racing experience, may be eligible for a Novice Permit. Items required prior to issuance of a Novice Permit include:
1. A current Physical Examination* dated no more than six months prior to application.
2. Two passport size photos.
3. A photocopy of both sides of your Motor Vehicle Operators license
4. 14 - 17 year olds:
a. A completed Parental Consent, Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement form (original only, photo copies not accepted). *NOTE: All waiver forms must be printed in color.
b. A completed Minor's Assumption of Risk Acknowledgment form (original only, photo copies not accepted). *NOTE: Must be printed in color.
5. If you are 18-21 years of age and live in Alabama, Nebraska, or Wyoming, a notarized Minor Waiver Release form. *NOTE: Must be printed in color.
6. $125 Novice Permit fee. For details contact the Member Services Department at 800-770-2055.
STEP 3 – Prepare to enter an SCCA Driver School Event
Click here to go straight to the "Driver School" page, which has a list of upcoming events at the bottom. 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.
If there aren't any SCCA Driver Schools scheduled in your area, contact your local Region to ask about arranging an Alternate Driver School (ADS). ADS may be completed with an driving instructor one-on-one or with a small group of drivers. The ground school instruction may occur prior to arriving at the track and the on-track observation may take place during a test day, SCCA CRE or Time Trial event.
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.
STEP 4 – 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.
STEP 5 – SCCA Regional Competition License…and Beyond
Upon completion of one Driver School and three additional race weekends (you’re still a Novice for your first three), you are eligible to receive an SCCA Full 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 third race; a copy of your Physical Exam;Competition License Application and $100 to the Member Service Department. You will soon be the proud owner of a Full Competition License.
