Summary
The 2025 Ride the Light Rulebook from Mobile Electronics Competition Association (MECA) outlines the rules, guidelines, and procedures for various events, points accumulation, team guidelines, discipline, and protest procedures, as well as specific rules for the Ride the Light contest.
- Events & Points Accumulation Guidelines: Competitors must accumulate 45 points in each class to qualify for the World Finals Soundfest, with reduced requirements for active military, first responders, and individuals with medical issues.
- Points Sharing: MECA allows 2 1X points sharing events per class per season, enabling members to earn points from non-MECA events, with a maximum of 10 points per class.
- Event Formats: There are various event formats such as 1X, 2X, 3X, and 4X events, each with different points awarded based on placement, and specific judging criteria.
- Team Guidelines: MECA teams must pay an annual membership fee and ensure members are in good standing. Teams are recognized in event results and can compete for the Team Participation Award.
- Discipline & Protest Procedures: MECA outlines procedures for addressing misconduct, including filing complaints, possible sanctions, and protest processes during contests.
- Ride the Light Contest: The Ride the Light contest evaluates interior and exterior vehicle lighting displays based on the number of lights, installation integrity, creativity, and overall impression.
- Vehicle/Owner Requirements: Vehicles must be driven and operated by the owner or a support team member during judging, and competitors must show courtesy to judges.
- Judging Criteria: Judges evaluate lighting displays based on the number of lights, installation practices, creativity, and thematic presentation, with a maximum score of 100 points per class.
- System Requirements: All lighting systems must be powered by a 12-volt source within the vehicle and installed safely.
- Judge’s Guidelines: MECA emphasizes fair and fun events, with judges required to conduct themselves professionally, avoid biases, and follow specific guidelines to ensure ethical treatment of competitors.
