Rules & tech · a.k.a. the formal stuff
Three rules.
No exceptions.
Grassroots doesn't mean careless. Be old enough, bring the right drivetrain, and pass basic tech. That's the whole list — read it anyway.
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You must be 18 to drive.
Under 18? There are two paths, and both start with a conversation.
18+Cleared to driveRegister, pass tech, drive.
16–17Consent requiredParental consent form filled out and signed, and a parent present at the event.
14–15Special considerationCase by case only. Contact kriswcudmore@yahoo.com before registering.
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RWD or RWD-converted.
The vehicle must be rear-wheel drive or converted to rear-wheel drive. No, you can't "drift" your Civic.
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Pass basic tech.
Your car MUST pass the basic tech sheet to drive. Inspect every item yourself before you bring the car to the track, fill out the top of the form ahead of time, and hand it to the tech inspector between 8 and 9 AM. Making sure your car is track-ready is your responsibility.
US Drift / NASA technical inspection form
The tech sheet.
Every line below is on the official form. Check each one on your car before event day; the inspector won't sign or stamp until all violations are corrected.
Wheels & tires
- Condition of tire
- All lug nuts present & tight
- No hubcaps or beauty rings
Brakes
- Pedal pressure
- Fluid level
- Lines (condition)
- Brake lights
Steering & suspension
- Wheel bearings — front
- Wheel bearings — rear
- Steering play
Safety equipment
- Roll bars in open cars
- Seat belts or harness
- Helmet — Snell SA2020–2025
- Covered battery inside cockpit
- On-board fire extinguisher
Engine
- Fluid leaks (oil, fuel, water)
- Radiator overflow
- Radiator hoses (condition)
- Battery secured (no bungees)
- Terminals covered
Miscellaneous
- Gas cap secured
- No wires exposed
- Seats bolted tight
Have ready at track: no loose objects in the car or trunk — remove the spare tire, jack, floor mats, dash mats, paper, etc. A tech/group sticker goes on the top left of the windshield. Owner signs that they've inspected the vehicle and take full responsibility for its condition on the track.
Print it
Fill out the top before you roll in.
Event date, track (Thunderdome), driver, make, model, year and car number — done at home, not in the tech line. Bring the sheet to tech between 8 and 9 AM.
Questions on eligibility or tech?