Each local Pinewood Derby committee determines the rules for building and racing cars. The committee will need to make sure their rules don't conflict with those of the district or council to ensure their members can participate in events at those levels. Our committee elects to abide by the official Scouting America rules as listed below.
Each local Pinewood Derby committee determines the rules for building and racing cars. The committee will need to make sure their rules don't conflict with those of the district or council to ensure their members can participate in events at those levels.
According to the Scouting America's Cub Scout Leader How-To-Book, the general rules are as follows:
All cars must pass the following inspection to qualify for the race:
Design a new car every year, this builds your skills!
Width shall not exceed 2-3/4 inches.
Length shall not exceed 7 inches.
Weight shall not exceed 5 ounces.
Axles, wheels, and body shall be from the materials provided in the kit. Additional wheels can be purchased separately.
Wheel bearings, washers, and bushings are prohibited.
No lubricating oil may be used. Axles may be lubricated with powdered graphite or silicone.
The car shall not ride on any kind of spring.
The car must be free-wheeling, with no starting devices.
No loose materials of any kind are allowed in the car.
Visit the Johnson City Scout Shop for everything you need and don't need!!! Johnson City Scout Shop Info
Posted Date:
Editor: Aaron Jestrab
Event: Not Yet Scheduled for 2026
_________ are hosting workshop sessions with Paul to cut out your Pinewood Derby car. Don't forget to bring your Pinewood Derby car, with your design and ready to cut out.
Date:
Time:
Scout Life Magazine offers fantastic Pinewood Derby resources, including expert tips on speed and design, along with thousands of photos of amazing cars. It's the perfect place to explore and find inspiration for your car design!
There are specific Materials you will need to make your Pinewood Derby car move fast!
Tungsten Weights 3.75 ounces
Stick on weight, cut with scissors
Tube of Graphite
These are just some options to give your car a personal touch or match to your cars style.
Official Blue Derby Wheels
Official Green Derby Wheels
Official Blue Derby Wheels
This section is more informational and shows different tools that we use in Pinewood Derby. The pack has some of these tools that you can use. I am adding them here for the enthusiast.
Official Blue Derby Wheels
Axle Alignment Block - Drilled
Axle Alignment Block