NASA Northwest Time Trial offers a competitive, timed environment where drivers push their limits without the complexities of wheel-to-wheel racing. Whether you're progressing from HPDE or transitioning from another organization, there are multiple clear paths into Time Trial with NASA NW.

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Option 1 — Traditional HPDE Progression Path

This is the standard route for drivers coming up through NASA’s coaching and development ladder.

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Drivers will:

• Progress through the NASA HPDE program (HPDE1 → HPDE3 → HPDE4).

• Demonstrate consistent pace, situational awareness, and safe driving practices in HPDE4.

• Receive a recommendation from the HPDE4 Group Leader confirming readiness for TT.

• Submit a Time Trial License Application to NASA.

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This path is ideal for new or developing drivers who want a structured, progressive way into competitive timed sessions.

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Option 2 — Experienced Drivers From Other Organizations

Drivers with significant track experience or timed competition experience (e.g., SCCA Time Trials, Global Time Attack, PCA, BMW CCA, etc.) may enter TT through licensing review.

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Drivers will be evaluated based on:

• Documented track experience

• Verified lap times from other events

• In-car video demonstrating pace, consistency, awareness, and car control

• Event results or timing sheets showing performance relative to peers

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Notes:

• Experience must be meaningful and current.

• A “paper license” without actual driving experience is not sufficient.

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This option is best for drivers already comfortable with open passing and fast-paced sessions.

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Key Points & Resources for NASA Northwest Time Trial

Time Trial uses the same performance-based classification structure as NASA’s Super Touring (ST) program. Important: TT classing information is not found in the Time Trial rules but in the Super Touring regulations.

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Class Equivalencies:

• SU / GT → TTU / TTGT

• ST1–ST4 → TT1–TT4

• ST5–ST6 → TT5–TT6

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Drivers must review the Super Touring rules for full details on power-to-weight ratios, modifiers, penalties, aero allowances, tire rules, and more.

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Classing Calculator

The official NASA ST/TT Classing Calculator must be used to determine your correct class.

Drivers will input:

• Dyno data

• Vehicle weight

• Modifications

• Displacement or power adders

• Aero configurations

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The calculator determines the appropriate TT class and identifies any penalties or modifiers.

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Dyno Certification Requirements

A valid Dyno Certification Form is required for all TT competitors.

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Important notes:

• The most common questions are answered on page one under “Dyno Testing Procedures.”

• Drivers must read all 14 bullet points carefully to ensure both you and your dyno operator follow NASA procedures correctly.

• Proper dyno documentation is mandatory for class compliance.

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Annual Tech & Logbook

All TT cars must complete Annual Tech before competing.

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Key points:

• TT cars receive a NASA Logbook marked “TT Only.”

• The Annual Tech sticker for TT vehicles is placed on the lower driver-side windshield. (Race cars receive theirs higher up or near the roofline.)

• The Annual Tech form is the same used for wheel-to-wheel race cars.

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Although TT cars are only required to meet HPDE minimum tech standards, drivers are strongly encouraged to exceed them.

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Weekend Expectations

Drivers should plan on being in class or on track for most of the weekend.
There will not be time to participate in other run groups.

For active Time Trial competitors, the schedule will allow at least one TT session per day to maintain season points.

Drivers are expected to read and understand the NASA CCRs before attending.