Getting Started

All the questions you have about starting to track your car, and some you didn’t realize you had, answered.

Coming Soon!

CAR PREP

Do I need a special car?

You do not need a special car and can likely use the same one you drive everyday! However, SUVs are generally not recommended due to a high center of gravity, and there are special rules for convertibles.

How do I prep my car? What car modifications are required?

No car modifications are required to take it onto a track. However, it should be in good running shape. Take your car into a shop (see next question) and ask for a track inspection. The shop will check it for track-worthiness and if needed, they will recommend repairs/replacements.

Recommended services:

Brake fluid flush. Brake temperatures get hot on the track and if there is water vapor in your brake fluid, it will boil. We recommend replacing standard brake fluid with a high temperature brake fluid.

What shops can do track inspections?

Please refer to the printable list on the right.

What special training is required? A special license?

Most tracks have require drivers to be at least 18 years old, however some will allow 16+ with parental consent. Also, a valid drivers license is needed.

Having previous experience in a Car Control Clinic is highly recommended, but not mandatory.

GEAR

What should I wear? Any special clothing?

Tops: Cotton shirts (short or long sleeves). No tank tops.

Bottoms: Pants preferred. Shorts allowed but not preferred. Leggings or crops OK.

Shoes: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Best are sneakers with a thin flexible sole & narrow foot-bed (examples: Converse All-Stars, Puma Drift Cat or Kart Cat, Adidas Adi Racer, Nike Free, etc.)

What kind of helmet do I need?

Each track organization has their own requirements. Most require a Snell rating (SA). Helmets are currently rated SA2010 or SA2015, where the digits refer to the year the certification will expire. Look for a sticker or tag on the helmet.

I have a motorcycle helmet - will it work?

Some track organizations will allow a helmet with a motorcycle (M) rating. The difference is that SA certification requires flammability testing, while M certification does not.

Where can I get a helmet?

Some track organizations will have loaner helmets available. If using a loaner helmet, bringing your own balaclava or head sock is recommended (for hygiene reasons).

If purchasing your own helmet, we highly recommend trying them on in person prior to purchase (or purchasing online with the expectation that things will get returned). Common helmet manufacturers include Arai, Bell, HJC, Simpson, Stilo and range from $200 to $2,000. Each manufacturer sizes their helmets slightly different and a S in one, may be a XS in another. Pay close attention to measurement guides if purchasing a helmet online.

Locally, Wine Country Motorsports at Sonoma Raceway is currently the only location where auto racing helmets are available. In a pinch, some manufacturers make both auto and motorcycle helmets (Bell, Arai, etc.), and helmets can be tried on for sizing purposes.

How do I know my helmet fits?

Your helmet should feel snug, but without severe discomfort. The cushions should push your cheeks up a little (“chipmunk cheeks”). Grab the strap under your chin and move it around – the helmet should not slide around.

It’s recommended to wear a new helmet for 15-20 mins to see if any pressure points develop before the track day.