Grid is where cars are positioned before their track sessions . . . among other things

What is Grid?
The Grid is paddock area reserved for cars scheduled to go on course within 20 to 30 minutes. The Grid is not used for car assembly or mechanical checks that are normally done at your paddock area or for fueling, except under special circumstances that require pre-approval.

How is Grid structured?
For practice and qualifying sessions, cars are lined up first-come, first-served. For races, cars are placed in position according to official qualifying times issued by Timing & Scoring. Grid marshals will direct you to the correct position.

Do I have to go to Grid?
Technically, you don't have to park at Grid. For practice/qualifying sessions, you may proceed on track by entering the Pit Lane via the properly designated route adjacent to the Grid area after the regular field has left the Grid. For races, you may join after the field has left the Grid and/or taken the green flag by the same entry route, subject to the Chief Steward's approval which is communicated to the Re-entry Starter at the head of the Pit Lane.

Why should I go to Grid?
Not showing up at Grid costs you your Grid position in a race and relegates you to the back of the pack for other sessions also. There are final checks that should be done at Grid, including driver's personal safety gear. If you race in a group requiring a Spec tire for Qualifying, tires are marked at Grid. If you add a camera during the course of an event, Grid can check the mount and give an approval sticker.

What does Grid do after they put me in position?
• We will keep you advised of track conditions (oil, berm breaking up, pavement holes), delays (oil clean-up, tire banding) and other schedule changes.
• We check for your Tech sticker.
• We look at your car's overall appearance for cleanliness, safety and solidarity on the pavement.
• We check your equipment: driver's suit, hood sock for facial hair or long tresses, underwear as required, legal shoes, nomex gloves and socks, arm restraints in open cars and in cars whose design precludes installing window nets.
• We check your helmet for required ID information, Snell year, proper fit, proper strap fasteners for SCCA (and unique paint jobs!).
• We check your belts for damage and expiration date, and your head pad for size and compatibility with you and your helmet.
• We look for other safety items: the fire system, the fire wall, the seat restraint, the roll cage, windshield clips, battery placement, window net attachments, belt configuration and attachments, emergency switches, etc.