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Autocross at THSCC

Autocross

Timed competition in your daily driver

Drive your own car through a technical course laid out with traffic cones in a large paved lot. One car on course at a time, speeds stay under 60 mph, and you get multiple runs to improve.

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Autocross Rules

Rules and supplementary regulations.

Autocross is a timed driving event on a temporary course marked with traffic cones. Cars run one at a time. Your goal is to drive the course cleanly and as quickly as you can, without hitting cones or going off course.

These expectations are here to keep everyone safe, make the event fair, and help the day run smoothly. If this is your first event, it is normal to have questions. Ask anytime.

Key terms we use

  • Paddock: The parking area where you unload and prep your car.

  • Grid: The staging area where cars line up before their run.

  • Corner workers: Volunteers stationed around the course who watch for issues and help reset cones.

  • DNF: Did not finish. Used when a run cannot be scored normally.

Core rules in plain language

1) Safety first, always

  • Follow instructions from event staff and corner workers right away.

  • Drive slowly and carefully in the paddock and grid.

  • No burnouts, drifting, or aggressive driving anywhere off course.

  • No alcohol or impairing substances during the event.

2) Cars run one at a time

  • Only the car currently on course is being timed.

  • If you see a red flag or a “STOP” signal, stop quickly and safely.

  • Stay stopped until an event worker gives you direction.

3) Stay on course

  • The course is defined by cones, and sometimes chalk, pointers, or directional cones.

  • If you miss a gate, go off course, or get lost, your run may be scored as a DNF.

  • If you are unsure where to go, slow down and find the correct path. Guessing at full speed usually costs more time.

4) Cones add time

  • Each cone you hit or move adds a time penalty to that run.

  • Some cone mistakes can turn into a DNF if you skip a required part of the course.

5) Your car must pass tech before you run

Before your first run, your car must pass a basic safety inspection. Common items:

  • Remove loose items from the cabin and trunk.

  • Battery is secure.

  • Wheels and lug nuts look safe and are properly tightened.

  • Throttle returns normally.

  • Brakes feel solid.

  • No major fluid leaks.

  • Car number and class markings are visible.

6) Helmet and driver requirements

  • A helmet is required.

  • Some events have loaner helmets available if you do not have one.

  • Attend the drivers meeting and follow the procedures explained there.

7) Work assignments are required

Autocross only works when everyone helps.

  • Most drivers will have a work assignment, often corner working, during a heat when they are not driving.

  • If you miss your assignment, it can affect your ability to run.

If you are not sure where you should be or what you should be doing next, ask. We are happy to repeat instructions.

Classing and car prep

Autocross uses classes so you compete against cars with similar performance and modification levels.

  • If you are not sure where your car fits, do not stress.

  • We can help you pick a reasonable starting class.

  • You can always adjust later.

Helpful resources:

Want the official rulebook?

Our events generally follow the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Solo Rules. For full details on safety, procedures, penalties, and classing:

Questions are welcome

If anything is unclear, ask at the event. People like us were new once too, and we are happy to help you get your first day right.