What MotoAmerica registration is and who needs it

MotoAmerica registration is the process of entering a motorcycle or related vehicle into competition sanctioned by MotoAmerica, the national road racing series in the United States. If you own a bike and want to race it in an organized MotoAmerica event, you must register both yourself as a competitor and your motorcycle with the organization before you can participate.

MotoAmerica sanctions road racing events at tracks across the country — events like the MotoAmerica Superbike Championship and various regional series. Registration is separate from street motorcycle registration with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles; it is specific to racing competition and is required by the sanctioning body, not by law.

You need MotoAmerica registration if you plan to race a motorcycle in any MotoAmerica-sanctioned event, whether you are a professional competitor or an amateur entering a club-level race. Spectators and support crew do not need competitor registration, but anyone who will sit on the bike during a timed session or race must be registered.

Key Takeaways

  • MotoAmerica registration requires you to create a competitor account, provide personal and medical information, and pay an annual membership fee that varies by membership tier.
  • Your motorcycle must be registered separately with MotoAmerica and must meet technical specifications for the class in which you plan to race.
  • You will need a valid motorcycle license, proof of insurance, and a signed waiver before your registration can be processed.
  • Registration is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed annually if you plan to race in the following year.
  • Different membership levels offer different benefits and cost different amounts; the level you choose depends on whether you race occasionally or compete regularly.

How to register as a competitor

Start by visiting the MotoAmerica website and creating a competitor account. You will need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email address. MotoAmerica will use this information to create your competitor profile and to contact you about events and registration status.

Next, you must provide emergency contact information and medical history. MotoAmerica requires this because racing carries injury risk; medical personnel at events need to know about allergies, medications, and existing conditions. You will also need to declare your racing experience level — whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced competitor — because this determines which classes and events you are permitted to enter.

You must then select a membership tier. MotoAmerica offers different levels, typically ranging from a basic annual membership to higher tiers that include additional event entries or insurance coverage. The cost and benefits of each tier vary by year. Once you have selected your tier and paid the membership fee, your competitor account is active.

Registering your motorcycle

After your competitor account is set up, you must register the specific motorcycle you will race. You will need the bike's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), engine size in cubic centimeters, make, model, and year. MotoAmerica uses this information to verify that your bike meets the technical rules for the class you want to enter.

Different racing classes have different technical requirements — engine displacement limits, weight minimums, and modifications that are either required or forbidden. Before you register your bike, check the technical rules for the class you plan to race. If your motorcycle does not meet those rules, you will not be able to register it in that class, though you may be able to register it in a different class if it qualifies.

You will also need to provide proof that your motorcycle is insured. MotoAmerica requires liability insurance, and you must show a current insurance policy or certificate of insurance that covers the bike. Some riders purchase track-day or racing-specific insurance; others use their street motorcycle policy if it covers track use. Check with your insurance company about what is covered before you register.

Documentation and waivers you must submit

MotoAmerica requires a signed liability waiver from every competitor. This is a legal document in which you acknowledge the risks of motorcycle racing and agree not to hold MotoAmerica, the track, or event organizers responsible for injury or damage. You cannot race without signing this waiver, and it must be signed by you personally — not by a parent or guardian on your behalf, even if you are under 18.

You must also provide a copy of a valid motorcycle license or endorsement. This can be a state motorcycle license, a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, or an international motorcycle license if you are racing as a foreign competitor. The license must be current and valid at the time you register and at the time of each event you enter.

If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign a parental consent form in addition to your own waiver. Some states have additional requirements for minors racing motorcycles; check your state's regulations before you register.

Fees and payment

MotoAmerica membership fees vary by tier and change from year to year. A basic annual membership typically costs less than a premium membership that includes multiple event entries or additional services. You pay the membership fee when you create your competitor account, and this fee covers your registration for the calendar year.

In addition to the membership fee, you must pay an entry fee for each individual event you want to race in. Entry fees are set by MotoAmerica and vary depending on the event, the class you are entering, and whether you are racing in a practice session, may have access to round, or race. Entry fees are separate from and in addition to your annual membership.

Payment is typically made online through the MotoAmerica website using a credit card or debit card. Some events may accept payment at the track, but registering online before the event is faster and ensures your spot is held.

Timeline for registration and when to register

You can register for MotoAmerica at any time during the year, but your membership is valid only for the calendar year in which you register. If you register in March, your membership expires on December 31 of that year. If you want to race in January of the following year, you must renew your membership before the new year begins.

For individual events, MotoAmerica typically opens entry a few weeks before the event date. Entry closes a set number of days before the event — often one to two weeks — to allow time for the organization to finalize the race schedule and send you event details. If entry closes before you register, you cannot enter that particular event, though you can enter future events if entry is still open for them.

Some events fill up quickly, especially popular races or races in popular classes. Registering early increases your chances of getting a spot. If an event is full, MotoAmerica may open a waiting list, and you can request to be added to it.

What happens after you register

Once your registration is complete, MotoAmerica will send you a confirmation email with your competitor number, membership details, and instructions for the events you have entered. Your competitor number is printed on your racing license and used to identify you at the track.

Before each event, you will receive a rider briefing packet with the event schedule, track map, technical inspection procedures, and any rule changes or special instructions for that race. You are responsible for reading this packet and arriving at the track with all required documents — your valid motorcycle license, proof of insurance, and your racing license.

At the track, your motorcycle will undergo a technical inspection to verify that it meets the rules for your class. If your bike does not pass inspection, you will not be permitted to race until the issue is corrected. Technical inspectors check things like tire condition, brake function, fuel system safety, and whether any illegal modifications have been made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register a motorcycle I do not own?

MotoAmerica does not require you to own the motorcycle you race, but you must be listed as the registered competitor and the bike's owner or owner's representative must sign off on the registration. If you are borrowing or leasing a bike, get written permission from the owner and provide that to MotoAmerica if asked.

What if my motorcycle does not pass technical inspection?

If your bike fails inspection, you have until a set time before your race to fix the problem and re-inspect. Common failures include worn tires, brake issues, or loose bodywork. If you cannot fix it in time, you cannot race that day, though you may be able to enter a future event once the bike is corrected.

Do I need a separate racing license from my street motorcycle license?

Yes. Your street motorcycle license proves you are legally allowed to ride on public roads. Your MotoAmerica racing license, which you receive after registration, proves you are registered with MotoAmerica and have met their competitor requirements. You need both to race.

Can I change my membership tier after I register?

Contact MotoAmerica directly to ask about changing your membership tier. Some changes may be possible during the year, but fees and benefits vary, and you may owe an additional payment or receive a credit depending on what you change.

What if I want to race in a different class than the one I registered for?

You can register your motorcycle in multiple classes if it meets the technical rules for each one. You pay a separate entry fee for each class at each event. Contact MotoAmerica if you want to add a class to your existing registration.