Check for Starting Line events — schools run at host regions around the country through the season, so availability depends on your region and time of year.
Is your Region is interested in hosting a Starting Line School?
Starting Line
What is it
The Tire Rack SCCA® Starting Line schools are a partnership between the Sports Car Club of America™ and Tire Rack to give automotive enthusiasts a professional, all-inclusive entry into the world of performance driving. In addition to a full day of instruction, you’ll receive free and discounted entries for future events as well as a subscription to Grassroots Motorsports Magazine!
We offer three experiences:
A full-day hands-on performance driving school.
Tire Rack ProSolo® series add-on that guides you through the event, including practice starts at the ProSolo tree.
Tire Rack Solo® National Tour supplement to guide you through the event.
Aiming for that spot atop the podium? As a friend to SCCA and its members, Tire Rack is ready to help with tires, wheels and brakes.
Overview
Starting Line schools introduce you to autocross and the dynamics of your vehicle in a performance driving environment, working one-on-one with professional driving instructors. Whether you’re pursuing motorsports competition or just want to explore what your car can really do, the Tire Rack SCCA Starting Line® School is your complete motorsports starter kit.
Your $265 Starting Line package includes a full day of professional driving instruction plus exclusive SCCA member benefits. You must be annual SCCA members, but non-members can simply join during registration.
Event Package:
- SCCA Tire Rack National Event discount ($205 value; not valid for Tire Rack ProSolo Finale or Tire Rack Solo Nationals)
- SCCA Track Night in America® coupon ($150 value)
- Regional event entry ($20-40 value)
- Starting Line hat
- Optional addition (additional cost): open or full-face helmet that follows current helmet certification requirements — through our partnership with Solo Performance Specialties (SPS), you’ll receive a coupon code for 10% off of $100 purchase in your registration confirmation email. After registering, check that email for instructions on ordering directly from our friends at SPS!
Upcoming Events
There are no current Starting Line events on the schedule.
Check back soon for next season’s events!
ProLaunch is a $65 add-on for drivers already entered in a Tire Rack ProSolo event. Rather than a full driving school, it’s built entirely around ProSolo’s drag-race-style launch, pairing participants with ProSolo veteran coaches for at least 12 coached practice starts. Instruction begins Friday at 1 p.m. and continues throughout the weekend.
The $65 fee covers ProLaunch coaching only — it does not include the ProSolo entry fee, which participants register for separately.
ProLaunch is ideal for first-time ProSolo competitors and for regional event competitors looking to try the format. Drivers who want general autocross instruction should start with the traditional Starting Line School instead.
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Driver’s Edge is a $20 coaching program for drivers entered in a Tire Rack Solo National Tour or Shootout event, built to help you move from regional autocross into national-level competition — whether it’s a first National Tour or a return after time away.
Coaches will guide you through the full event experience: registration, course walks covering course nuances and standard elements, grid operations, run/work assignments, and impound procedures. Coaching starts Wednesday before the event, resumes Friday at 2:45 p.m., and continues throughout the weekend.
Driver’s Edge covers event navigation, not in-car instruction. If you’re looking to sharpen your driving specifically, attend the Evo Advantage Tour School — a scaled-down instructional option from Evolution Performance Driving School — held Friday mornings for drivers new to national events or if you’re looking to improve your standings.
Exact days and times can vary by event — check the individual event’s registration page for specifics.
When planning to attend a Starting Line event, here are the Must Haves, Nice to Haves, and what to grab in case of wet weather.
Must haves
- Driver’s License: Everyone must be a legal driver to participate in SCCA events.
- Car: Almost any vehicle can autocross, the exception are vehicles with a heightened rollover risk such as large SUVs or pick-up trucks. If you have concerns about the vehicle you would like to take the school in, please contact us.
Nice to haves
- Comfortable Shoes: There will be some standing, walking, and course working associated with the school. Many drivers prefer to wear driving shoes when in the car, but having a more comfortable pair for the rest of the day is advisable.
- Snacks/Drinks: It’s a full day! While there is generally water available on site, coming equipped with your favorite hydration drink will help you stay focused.
- Folding Chair: There will also be some down time, and time at Lunch where you may want to take a load off.
- Umbrella: Umbrellas are ok for staying dry, but great for portable shade on hot days.
- Sunscreen: Schools happen outside, apply early and often!
- Hat: To keep the sun out of your eyes or to manage helmet hair, a good idea either way.
In case of wet weather
Autocross is a rain or shine sport. Here are a few things that we recommend for wet days…
- Rain Suit: Many have had a miserable day due to attempting to get by with a poncho. A rain suit can be had for less than $100, and will keep you much more comfortable than a poncho can.
- Plastic Bins: Bins are great for keeping your race stuff organized, clean and dry.
- Towel: A towel is nice for drying off hands and feet before driving on a wet day.
Preparing your car
Technical Inspection:
Before we take to the course, we need to make sure all vehicles pass a technical inspection. Your vehicle will be checked to ensure it has functioning brakes, throttle return, properly installed and tightened wheels and that all loose items have been removed. One item of particular interest is the driver’s side floor mat, which must be removed to prevent interfering with proper pedal function.
Tire Prep:
Under-inflated tires can result in increased wear and even damage while autocrossing. To preserve your tires, and to give your vehicle a quicker response, it is generally advisable to inflate your tires 5-10psi more than what is recommended for normal driving. Doing so bolsters your tire’s sidewall, making the lateral loads and weight transfer associated with autocross easier to manage.
FAQs
How do I find a school near me?
What if there is inclement weather?
Starting Line schools generally run rain or shine. Learning vehicle control in varying conditions is part of the experience. Participants should check event communications for any weather-related updates.
What should I bring?
Your car in good mechanical condition, a valid driver’s license, comfortable closed-toe shoes (there will be some course work during the school), and a helmet if you already own one. Sunscreen, chair, water, and weather-appropriate layers are smart additions since the school runs outdoors for a full day.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Participants must meet the age and licensing requirements established by SCCA and the host Region. Check the event registration page for specific requirements.
Is Starting Line just for people brand-new to autocross?
Mostly, yes, though some experienced autocrossers use it as a skills refresher.
CONTACT US
If you have any questions for us or would like to see a Starting Line near you, fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch.
More Events
There are no current Starting Line events on the schedule.
Check back soon for next season’s events!
