How to Become a NASCAR Truck Driver
Getting to drive in NASCAR is something millions of people dream about, but it only becomes a reality for a select few. While the Camping World Truck Series is not the top ticket in the sport, many drivers believe that once they break into racing trucks, their options increased for moving up the ranks.
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Instructions
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Begin your racing career at an early age. It doesn't matter if you are driving go-karts or full-sized cars at your local dirt track, a NASCAR driver's eduction begins at an early age. Rules for minimum age vary depending on the location of the track and the type of vehicle being driven. In some types of motor sports, drivers can begin racing competitively as soon as they are old enough to see over the steering wheel. Many of NASCAR's top truck series drivers got their start behind the wheel of a go-kart or on their local dirt track.
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Pay attention to your school work. For a man or woman wanting to succeed in one of the most competitive forms of racing out there, a good education is mandatory. Sponsors expect to have a well-educated driver behind the wheel of their trucks. They want to know that when the driver is interviewed by the media, they will not only behave responsibly, they will be articulate and represent their company well. Education also helps in learning more about the technical aspects of the trucks.
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Start at the bottom and work your way up through the lower series. Most drivers in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series have competed in the lower touring series before making the move to the top-tier for truck racing. Drivers begin their NASCAR careers by first driving in either the Camping World East or Camping World West Series. These two series provide those wanting to move up into the truck series with basis for competition. During the series, drivers will compete on some of the most respected tracks in all of NASCAR, learn the ins and outs to how the series work, and prepare to move on to either the truck series or Nationwide Series.
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Don't be afraid to take any open position you can find with a team. Some drivers begin their careers as mechanics, engineers or members of the pit crew. Having a background in NASCAR outside of the driver's seat is something that will help a driver once he takes over behind the wheel.
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Meet the minimum requirements to race. NASCAR's trucks series rules require all drivers competing in the series to be at least 18 years of age. Drivers must also agree to random drug testing throughout the season and must pass a pre-season test in order to be certified to drive in the series. Drivers should also be in top physical shape to endure long races during the summer months.
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Become contracted with a team. The truck series of NASCAR typically runs between 20 and 25 races each year. Having a contract with a specific team will ensure your entry into each race as long as the team has sponsorship on board. Teams can race without a sponsor, though their funding is generally low and their equipment may be less than perfect.
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Understand the rules of the Camping World Truck Series. Each of NASCAR's top divisions have different rules regarding engine specifications and pit stops. Unlike drivers in the Sprint Cup Series and the Nationwide Series, those who compete in the truck series cannot take on both fuel and tires in the same pit stop.
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Tips & Warnings
Many successful drivers get noticed because of their early careers or have friendships with current series drivers. Knowing someone in the garage could be your ticket into an introduction with a team owner.
Failure to comply with any of NASCAR's rules can result in suspension, probation or points deductions.
NASCAR is a highly competitive sport where serious accidents happen frequently. Those who choose to drive must understand they are putting their lives at risk each time they get behind the wheel.
