Autotesting has become a core activity for many clubs across the UK, with compact venue sizes, low costs and simple entry mechanisms making them relatively easy to organise and participate in. They can also be great fun for everyone participating.

The challenge of racing against-the-clock on a complex and twisty course creates exciting competition, while the short time commitment required makes them ideal for midweek summer evenings. They are also often used as a focal point for Taster Days, promotional events and demonstrations – often supported by the StreetCar initiative – to open the door to new members.

Motorsport UK runs the National Autotest Championship for the very best in the country – but to get there, competitors need to build up their skills at a club level. This guide will help you and your club run one.

Select a good team

Set up an organising committee of club officials and experienced organisers. This team can then assign themselves or others to the key event roles of; clerk of the course, secretary, scrutineer, event steward, and chief marshal.

Choose your format

Autotesting covers three different event types:

• AutoSOLO, which must be run on sealed surfaces with only forward motion allowed

• Production Car Autotests( PCAs), which can include up to four reverse gear actions

• Autotests, which can involve different vehicle classes and have no on limit reverse gear actions. If the surface and space is suitable, one event can include multiple disciplines.

Venue and timing

Securing the venue is often the most challenging task of all. Autotests can be run on sealed or unsealed surfaces, depending on the format, and must include one or multiple test areas – each measuring no more than 200m 2 – as well as enough space for queuing and paddock areas. Once you find a suitable venue, obtain written permission from the landowner and agree the dates at the same time.

A good entry list is vital to make the event viable, so before you start planning, run a poll with club members to determine which dates are most preferable and check the calendars of other local clubs for the dates of other similar events. If you choose to run in an evening, be wary of darkening nights and arrange your timings to ensure you can complete the event and the pack-down before dark.

An autotest can provide a fun day of motorsport for everyone

James Roberts

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Revolution- November 2025