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Getting Started Racing

So, you’re ready to get started racing motorcycles? You’ve come to the right place!

AMA-sanctioned motorcycle racing is the most exciting, most accessible, and most affordable motorsport in the world, and the options are nearly endless.  

Whether you are young or old, whether you want to race on pavement or off-road, on modern or vintage bikes, the AMA offers a category that’s perfect for you. Every weekend at AMA Racing events across America, thousands of racers of all ages and skill levels square off—and it’s easy to join their ranks. 

How To Get Started

Getting started is quick and simple. Assuming you have the right bike (and a way to transport that bike to the racetrack), you’re almost all set.

Step 1: Join the AMA

The first step is to Join the AMA, as participants in AMA-Sanctioned competition events must be members of the Association. Think of an AMA membership as your license to race.  

Not only does the AMA provide consistent rules and guidelines that make racing fairer and safer, the AMA Government Relations Department fights for motorcyclists’ rights on the national level and helps organize and support local battles too — including preserving your access to the riding areas where many of us train and race. There is strength in numbers, and we need every racer to be on board. 

The rulebook is where you’ll learn what classes you are eligible to enter, how to make your bike legal for competition, and all the other information you’ll need to make your racing debut a success.  

If you have a minor racer in your household, this is also the time to complete the Annual Minor Release Form and submit the electronic version online. Please note that these forms should be completed at least three weeks before the first racing event to allow time for processing of the Annual Minor Release Card. 

Finally, Find an Event near you by searching our online database of AMA-sanctioned racing events. For a complete look at all the types of motorcycle racing sanctioned by the AMA, check out the sections of this website dedicated to each individual racing discipline.