First Time Drifting with RSD? You’re in the Right Place.

First Time Drivers Guide

This guide covers exactly what you need to drive and what to expect when you arrive—so there are no surprises on event day. Whether it’s your first drift event ever or your first time at RSD, we’ll walk you through the basics and get you on track with confidence.

What do I need to drive my first event?

Before you hit the track, every driver must meet a few basic requirements. The full details live in the RSD Rulebook, but the items below cover the core driver, car, and safety essentials you’ll need in order to drive at an event.

Driver Requirements

Drivers should arrive ready to learn, improve, and have fun, while using common sense throughout the day. Follow staff guidance, drive within your comfort level, and stay aware of your surroundings. Ask questions, take your time, and enjoy the process—progress comes from relaxed, consistent seat time.

Requirements

All drivers must attend the driver’s meeting. The meeting starts 30 minutes before the track goes live.
All drivers must possess a valid driver’s license. If they do not then they must be willing to sign an underage waiver form. Underage drivers must have a parent/ guardian present
A helmet is required. Must be SA2020 or newer, open faced helmets are allowed. All helmets must have a working chin strap and must be used.
Drivers and passengers must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes

For full details, please review the complete RSD Rulebook.

Car Requirements

Your car does not need to be a fully built drift car. It does need to be safe, reliable, and ready to spend a full day on track. A simple, well-maintained car is always better than a powerful one with issues.

Requirements

Seat belts or harnesses required. Must be properly installed. See Rulebook for details.
No fluid leaks of any kind
Brakes, suspension, drivetrain, and chassis must be in safe working condition
Battery securely mounted with proper hardware (no zip ties, bungees, or tape)
Minimum 2 lb fire extinguisher required, properly mounted and within reach of the driver
All lug nuts present and wheels properly secured
Brake lights must be operational
Front and rear tow points required and clearly visible

For full details, please review the complete RSD Rulebook.

What Should I Bring with me?

Arriving prepared makes your first event smoother, safer, and a lot more fun. Below are the essentials and a few strongly recommended items to help you get the most out of the day.

Required

Your Helmet
Long pants
Closed-toe shoes
Valid driver’s license
Event ticket / registration confirmation

Strongly Recommended

Tire pressure gauge
Basic tools such as socket set, wrenches, zip ties, tape, jack and jack stands
Extra tires
Extra fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
Water, snacks, and sunscreen. Food stands are not generally open so come prepared.
Folding chair or small pop-up for the pits

Good to Know

Securely mounted action cameras are allowed; handheld or loose cameras are not
Drones are not allowed
Bring weather-appropriate gear. Events run rain or shine. The temperature at the track can be 10° colder than surrounding areas
If you’re unsure whether something is allowed, ask staff before using it

What to expect on track day?

Nervous? That’s normal. Here’s exactly how your first RSD track day unfolds — step by step from arrival to that final, confidence-boosting lap.

How the Day Flows

Check In. Get Your Wristband
Get signed in, get sorted, head to pits.
Unload & Pass Tech
Pop the hood. Show it’s solid. You read the rulebook right?
Drivers Meeting
We’ll cover safety, flow, and run groups. Pay attention, it keeps the day running smooth.
Know Your Run Group
Stay aware of your class times. Be staged before your session goes hot.
Grid Up
Helmet on before you get on grid. Camera on. Belts tight.
Drive Your Session
Shred tires. Stack laps.
Cool Down & Inspect the Car
Check the car. Swap tires if needed.
Tire machine is on site. Use it, respect it. Take your tires with you!
Run It Back
Next session up. Same energy.
Cool Down
Load up, swap stories, and make plans for the next one.

So what do the track layouts look like?

Since you’re brand new, we strongly recommend starting with a Clinic or Drift Lot event. These layouts are wide, open, and forgiving — designed to give you space to learn car control, throttle input, and transitions without pressure. It’s the perfect environment to build confidence before moving up to full track layouts.