Pinewood Derby Races and Rules

Build your car and see how it stacks up at your Pack races!

What are we racing and when are the races generally held?

From a block of wood, four plastic wheels, and four nails, a Scout produces a vehicle that can reach 20 mph! Cars are raced on tracks with two to six lanes where using only gravity to speed them along.

Racing happens at the Pack Derby Race, generally held in January through March (but can vary), where the cars are run in different heats and lanes. 

What are the rules for A Pinewood Derby Race?

Read the full set of rules posted on this page to make sure your car won't get disqualified!  Units are encouraged to use these rules for their Pack-level race.  

See the "Documents to Download" section on the right-hand side of this page to download a copy.  Outside of the participation age range, the ruleset is the same as the previous few years's documents.  

General Tips for Making a Fast Car

There are many websites that will give you tips and tricks on how to maximize the speed of your car. Always keep in mind that the Northern Star Council's derby rules will be the ones that you need to follow.

Here are a few tips that will help:

• Maximize your allowable weightWeight should be in the rear of car in front of rear axle with the balance point 1-1.25 inches in front of rear axle.
• Use the slot closest to the end of block for rear axle.
• Low profile, smaller surface in front and larger in back.
• Wings, sails, flags, etc. catch air and will slow down the car.
• Make sure axle slots/ holes are perfectly parallel to make the car track as straight as possible.
• Lubricate wheels and axles with graphite and work in thoroughly. Graphite works best after a break-in period, so don't use between races.
• Polish nails/axles.
• Remove flashing around nail head.