What Is Solo in Motorsport? Autocross, ProSolo, and How to Get Started
Solo is the SCCA's name for autocross: a timed competition where one car at a time runs a course marked by traffic cones, usually on a large paved lot, with runs typically under a minute or two and speeds kept low enough that the main skills tested are car control and precision rather than outright speed. If you want a low-cost, low-risk way to start competitive driving, a Solo event is usually the entry point. If you want wheel-to-wheel racing or high-speed track sessions, Solo is not that — look at wheel-to-wheel classes or HPDE instead.
Solo vs. autocross vs. ProSolo
"Solo" and "autocross" describe the same activity; Solo is the SCCA's branding for its autocross program. ProSolo is a distinct SCCA format built on the same cone-course idea but run differently.
| Dimension | Solo (autocross) | ProSolo |
|---|---|---|
| Start format | Standing start, one car at a time | Drag-race-style Christmas tree start, two cars side by side |
| Competition structure | Best timed run counts, class-based | Heads-up, run against a competitor in the other lane, plus a handicap index |
| Course layout | Single course | Two mirrored courses run simultaneously |
| Emphasis | Consistency and clean runs | Reaction time, launch, and side-by-side pressure |
| Typical entry point | First-timers | Drivers with some Solo experience |
The practical difference for a beginner: Solo is the format you start in. ProSolo adds a reaction-time and launch element that rewards practice, and it is usually run as a weekend event with more structure.
What a Solo event day actually looks like
A typical event runs on this sequence:
- Registration and check-in — confirm your entry, sign the waiver, get your run group and work assignment.
- Tech inspection — a volunteer checks basic safety items: battery tied down, no loose items in the cabin, throttle return, brake pedal firmness, tires not corded.
- Course walk — you walk the cone course on foot, usually several times, to learn the line before driving it.
- Driver's meeting — rules, safety, and schedule for the day.
- Run groups — you drive in your assigned group, typically 3–6 runs depending on turnout and course length.
- Work assignment — when you are not driving, you work the course (shagging cones, calling penalties, timing), which is how events stay cheap and self-run.
- Results — times are posted, usually with PAX/index handicaps so different classes can be compared.
The work assignment is not optional. Skipping it is the most common way a first-timer gets a bad first impression of the sport.
Car and safety basics for a first Solo
You do not need a race car. A normal street car in good mechanical condition is the standard starting point.
- Car: battery securely mounted, no fluid leaks, seat belts functional, tires with tread and no cords showing, brake fluid and pads in serviceable condition.
- Loose items: remove everything from the cabin and trunk that could move — floor mats included.
- Helmet: many regions have loaner helmets, but sizes run out. If you plan to return, buy a helmet that meets the current Snell rating your region requires and check the rulebook for the exact standard.
- Classing: your car is placed in a class based on make, model, and modifications. Getting this wrong changes who you compete against, so read the class rules or ask at registration before your first run.
- Numbers: you need car numbers and class letters visible on both sides, usually applied with tape or magnetic sheets.
Finding and pre-registering for Solo events
MotorsportReg is the registration platform used by many clubs and sanctioning bodies, including SCCA regions and independent clubs. The site describes itself as online event registration for 1,000+ motorsport clubs, racetracks, and sanctioning bodies, with tools to automate tasks and grow participation.
To find a Solo event:
- Go to the MotorsportReg site and use the event search.
- Filter by event type — autocross and Solo events appear under those categories, alongside HPDE, rally, rallycross, and track days.
- Filter by region or distance from your location to find clubs near you.
- Open the event page to see date, venue, entry limits, run group structure, and any novice program.
- Create an account and pre-register. Pre-registration reserves your spot and usually speeds up check-in, but it does not replace on-site registration, waiver signing, or tech.
For a concrete example, Tri-City Kart Club in Richland, WA lists its events on MotorsportReg, including a club race weekend and a membership listing — showing how a single club's calendar, membership, and event registration can all live on the same platform. Solo events from SCCA regions and other clubs appear the same way.
Common first-timer mistakes
- Missing your work assignment. You will be pulled from the course and may not get your times.
- Wrong class. Entering a modified car in a stock class, or the reverse, puts you against the wrong competition and can lead to a protest.
- No helmet or an expired one. Loaners exist but are not guaranteed in your size; an out-of-date Snell rating will not pass tech.
- Not walking the course enough. The course changes every event and is only marked by cones — walking it is how you learn the line.
- Leaving loose items in the car. This fails tech and creates a hazard on course.
- Arriving late. Registration and tech windows are fixed; missing them can mean missing the event.
If you want to compete on a tight budget with minimal risk to your car, start with Solo. If you want side-by-side starts and reaction-time pressure, look for a ProSolo once you have a few Solo events behind you.