It depends on the event! Some events yes, others, the roles are set at the start. But nothing stops you from swapping seats between events, and plenty of regular teams alternate to keep both people sharp on both jobs.
What IS it
The least expensive form of motorsport and, as one participant described it, “The most intense thing I have ever done.” RoadRally is a scenic drive with a purpose, and at the same time, a chance to enjoy a day on the open road with a friend.
Considering that their “most intense thing” was done on a public road, without breaking any laws, in a car with absolutely no modifications, it’s clear that RoadRally is much more than a simple phrase can describe.
Overview
RoadRally starts well in advance when organizers plan a route for teams to follow, determining safe and legal speeds for each portion, then writing step-by-step instructions.
When designing the route, organizers set average speeds below the speed limits for the roads traversed. Competitors will never need to speed or drive unsafely to meet the rally’s goals. The purpose of a RoadRally is precision, not speed or risk.
RoadRally teams consist of two people: the driver and the navigator.
On the day of the event, teams compete to see who is the best at understanding the instructions and following the route. Competition is usually scored by how accurately teams arrive at precisely measured checkpoints or, for non-timed based rallies, how well the instructions were followed.
Announcements
- Posted: October 26, 2026
- Posted: October 20, 2026
- Posted: October 20, 2026
- Posted: October 19, 2026
- Posted: October 16, 2026
- Posted: October 9, 2026
SCCA® RoadRally events are held on public roads and obey all laws, making this the easiest form of motorsport to participate in. The costs are as low as it gets, with risks no higher than your morning commute. There’s no specialized equipment needed for either the car or participants, with many rallies relying on a phone app for timing and scoring.
Street Legal Car with Insurance
Your car needs to be road legal and will have to pass a basic safety inspection, which includes working lights, wipers, mirrors, brakes, seat belts, horn, and road-worthy tires (specifics based on the individual car). Vehicles must be covered by a valid auto insurance policy as required by the state in which it is registered.
Two People
Each RoadRally team is required to have two people: a driver and a navigator. Anyone on the team planning to drive must have a valid driver’s license. Teammates can be best friends, spouses, a parent and child, co-workers, or someone you randomly met. Note that team members under the age of 18 will need to have a parent or guardian sign a minor waiver.
Small Stuff
When we say “small stuff,” we mean something to write with (in order to do some math or make notes), some paper (to do that math on), and some type of device which keeps time down to the second, like a watch or smart phone. Many RoadRallys utilize the Richta Rally app, making smart phones a must.
Photos
SCCA RoadRally events are divided into four competition categories, each emphasizing a different skill set. The rally’s event flyer and general instructions will describe the specific type of rally and rules for that event.
Touring (TSD) Rallies: A navigational and timing event
- Also called Time-Speed Distance Rallies, which is where the TSD name comes from.
- Focuses on following the correct route and arriving at checkpoints at a specific time.
- Instructions often include the average speed and sometimes the mileage.
- Challenging for beginners and those with years of RoadRally experience.
Course Rallies: Following specific rules
- Competitors follow a prescribed route.
- Teams are tested on their ability to follow the rally’s rules, observing signs and landmarks along the way.
- The rally’s rules can change within the same rally, offering additional challenges for the driver and navigator.
- Perfect for beginners, veterans of the sport, and everyone in between.
GTA (Game, Tour, and Adventure) Rallies: Emphasizes fun and problem-solving
- May include scavenger hunts, trivia questions, photo challenges, route-following exercises, puzzle solving, and more.
- Target speed and accurate timing are typically minimal (or nonexistent) in GTA RoadRallies.
- Lighthearted events that are perfect for everyone.
Treks: Non-competitive driving events
- Treks foster social interaction among participants.
- Provide a path to new memberships and increase SCCA awareness.
- Typically follows a pre-determined route “convoy style.”
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SCCA RoadRally competitors are divided into four official equipment classes. Unlike autocross or road racing, these classes are based on the navigation and timing equipment the team uses rather than the type of car they drive.
Class S: Stock
This is the beginner-friendly class, and the one most new competitors enter, yet that doesn’t mean the competition can’t be fierce.
- Uses the vehicle’s stock, factory odometer for distance.
- The navigator may use calculators, apps, or spreadsheets, but distance must be entered manually from the stock odometer.
- GPS may be used for navigation, but not to provide distance for timing calculations.
Class L: Limited
A step up from Stock.
- Distance may come from the vehicle’s electronic systems, the speedometer cable, wheel sensors or magnets, or GPS-based distance devices.
- Distance information must be entered manually into the timing computer.
- Continuous “time early/late” displays are not allowed.
Class E: Equipped
The most advanced equipment class.
- No restrictions on timing or calculating equipment.
- Rally computers can automatically receive distance information and continuously calculate ideal time, early/late status, plus average speed and corrections.
- Common systems include dedicated rally computers such as Alfa, Chronar, Timewise, and Zeron.
Class G: GPS
A newer official class.
- All distance information comes from a GPS source.
- GPS-based rally apps and electronic rally computers are permitted.
- Created to accommodate modern GPS-based rally technology.
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Step 1: Register
Some events may have online registration, some may have mail-in forms, some may have both, and some may even allow you to show up and register on site. When you find an event, look for the registration details because each rally is unique. Depending on the Region and the location, events usually cost less than $40 to enter.
Step 2: Show up
If you have questions, reach out beforehand or show up a few minutes early to ask questions. SCCA members, RoadRally teams, and event organizers are super welcoming. Someone will be on hand to get you set up and on your way.
Step 3: Drive
Buckle up, wait for your team’s assigned start time, and have fun. After all, that’s what this is all about. Pro tip: If it’s your first RoadRally, go into the event relaxed and with an open mind. Talk to other teams and learn as much as you can; what you learn will make your next event even better.
the news
Events & Series
These are organized by local SCCA Regions and are the entry point into the sport. While these are competitive events, you can make them as laid back as you want and they are great ways to just enjoy your car! No equipment? No problem! Most Regions even have novice classes for those new to the sport.
LOcal Events
- November 6, 2026
- Pleasant Gap, PA
Central Pennsylvania Region 2026 Witches RoadRallye
- November 6, 2026
- Fort Valley, GA
Middle Georgia Region RoadRally Number 2
- November 7, 2026
- Newburgh, IN
Southern Indiana Region RoadRally #7 Crowe Circus
- November 13, 2026
- Santa Clarita, CA
Cal Club Region, Drive the High Country, Tour RoadRally
- November 20, 2026
- Mckinney, TX
Texas Region Children’s Book Run RoadRally
- November 21, 2026
- Wildwood, MO
St. Louis Region RoadRally
Divisional events bring together competitors from multiple SCCA Regions within a geographic Division. These events allow for larger fields, with greater competition among more experienced participants, while still remaining accessible to newcomers. Divisional events also award points towards the year-long Championship series.
Divisional Events
SCCA sanctions three official National series:
- National Tour Rally Series
- National Course Rally Series
National Tour Events
The United States RoadRally Challenge® (USRRC) is the premier annual event in SCCA’s RoadRally program. Rather than being a single rally, it is a multi-day festival of National-caliber RoadRallies that rotates to a different host Region each year. The USRRC brings together competitors from across the United States to compete, socialize, and experience the country’s best rally roads and event organization.
A typical USRRC includes three National RoadRally events over three consecutive days, although this isn’t always the case.
Despite being SCCA RoadRally’s marquee event, the USRRC welcomes both experienced competitors and newcomers. The emphasis is on teamwork, precision, and enjoying the experience.
the NEWS
FAQs
Can I switch between driving and navigating?
Are we breaking traffic laws?
No. Every route is designed to be run entirely within posted speed limits and traffic laws. Organizers plan routes months in advance specifically, so teams never need to break a law to be competitive. AND, SCCA Road Rallies require organizers to alert local law enforcement, just to ensure they know to expect us.
I'm bad at mental math — can I still do this?
Yes. Some navigators use rally-specific calculators or apps built for TSD math, and route instructions are written to be followed methodically rather than solved on the fly. And most new teams follow “seat of the pants” rules, which simplify the experience and keeps the focus on fun.
How much does it cost to enter?
Most RoadRally entries run under $40, making it one of the most affordable ways to compete with SCCA. Many events also offer a novice class so first-timers aren’t scored against seasoned rally veterans.
What should I bring?
A clipboard, calculator, pen or pencil, and paper cover most events. For a night rally, add a small flashlight or map light so your navigator can read instructions without pulling over.
RULES & REGULATIONS
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