Join the BRCA: Your Gateway to RC Racing in the UK
If you're passionate about radio-controlled (RC) car racing, the British Radio Car Association (BRCA) offers the community, support, and legitimacy to help you race safely, fairly, and as part of something bigger. Here’s what joining entails and why it’s worth it.
What is the BRCA?
The BRCA is the UK’s governing body for RC car racing. It brings together clubs, racers, and enthusiasts across many disciplines—from circuit racing to off-road, oval tracks, drifting, large scale, bikes, and more. As well as organising events and setting standards, the BRCA provides essential infrastructure like insurance, rules, regulations, and support for new racers.
How to Become a Member
Becoming a BRCA member is straightforward. Here are the steps and membership types for 2025:
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Visit the BRCA website → brca.org/join and log in or register if you haven’t already.
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Choose your membership category based on your status and needs.
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Adult Membership (£25/year): For those aged over 16 who want to race RC cars in club or BRCA-sanctioned events.
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Junior Membership (£15/year): For under-16 racers.
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Non-Driving Membership (£10/year): For supporters, parents, crew, marshals, etc. This covers being trackside but does not grant you the right to drive/race at official events. Pay the membership fee. Once approved, you are insured, officially recognised, and able (if your membership type allows) to compete or be involved in BRCA-affiliated clubs and races.
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Keep your membership current. The memberships run on a calendar year basis, so renewal ensures you remain covered.
Why Membership Matters — Key Benefits
Here are the main advantages you gain by becoming a BRCA member:
| Benefit | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Insurance & Protection | Membership provides third-party liability insurance, allowing you to race safely and legally at BRCA-affiliated clubs and events. |
| Eligibility to Compete | You need valid BRCA membership to race in club events or BRCA national/regional series. Without it, you're not permitted to take part. |
| Recognition & Voting Rights | Adult and Junior driving members get a vote at BRCA section meetings and at the AGM or section EGM. This gives you a say in how things are run—rules, events, and the direction of the sport. |
| Support & Community | Access to clubs, resources, rules, technical guidance, and a network of fellow enthusiasts. This is especially valuable if you're just starting out. |
| Fair & Safe Racing Environment | Through rules, standards, and the insurance framework, BRCA helps ensure racing is organised, safe, and fairly judged. |
Things to Know / Tips for New Members
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Before you commit, visit a local club to see how things run, meet people, get advice on what sort of class might suit you.
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Decide what level you want to engage at: casual club racing or national-level competition. This will affect what equipment you need and how much you’ll invest.
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Think about your budget for a starter package—vehicle, batteries/fuel, spares, maintenance etc.
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Keep track of rule changes: BRCA publishes rules for each class, and these may change year to year. Being a member ensures you get the updates.
In Summary
Joining the BRCA is more than just paying a fee—it’s becoming part of the structure that keeps RC car racing in the UK thriving. You get insurance, credibility, access to racing events, and a voice in the sport’s governance. Plus, membership helps ensure that racing is done safely, fairly, and in line with shared standards.
If you’re interested, you can join or renew right away via the BRCA website. It’s a small step that opens up a lot of opportunity.
