17/09/2026
***PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT***
Updated rules for power cut off switches starting Jan 1 2027
NEW NHRA RULE UPDATE!!!!!
ELECTRICAL CUTOFF SWITCH RULES ARE CHANGING!
Long read.... but here's the new rules from the updated NHRA rule book:
8:4 MASTER CUTOFF
Mandatory when battery is relocated, or as outlined in Class Requirements. An electrical power cutoff switch produced for automotive use; solid-state electrical power cutoff switch permitted installed per the manufacturer’s instructions, must be installed on the rearmost part of each vehicle and be easily accessible from outside the car body.
The electrical power cutoff switch must be placed in such a manner as to give a safety official an unobstructed view of the mechanism from the rear of the vehicle. An additional electrical power cutoff switch located in reach of the driver is permitted. The electrical power cutoff switch(es) must be connected to the positive side of the electrical system and must stop all electrical functions including magneto ignition.
The off position must be clearly indicated with the word “OFF.” If switch is “push/pull” type, “push” must be the action for shutting off the electrical system and clearly labeled “PUSH OFF,” “pull” to turn it on. Any rods or cables used to activate the switch must be minimum 1/8-inch diameter.
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2027, the electrical power cutoff switch may not be installed behind, underneath, against, nor directly to the parachute pack(s). Vehicles running quicker than 7.50 (4.50), an additional electrical power cutoff switch must be installed in reach of the driver.
BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2027, vehicles with bodies must have a minimum three-inch diameter circular marking in a contrasting color to the vehicle body, centered around the electrical cutoff switch.
IN LIEU OF the three-inch circular marking around the electrical cutoff switch, a NHRA accepted electrical cutoff decal applied as close as possible to the electrical cutoff switch, minimum 3 inch high X 1 ¾ inch wide.
Vehicles with a wing/spoiler, the electrical power cutoff switch may not be installed directly under a wing/spoiler. Instead it must be installed on the bumper. Dragster or vehicles without bodies behind the rear wheels, switches and/or controls must be located behind rear wheels.
Beginning January 1, 2027, dragsters or vehicles without bodies behind the rear wheels with push/pull switches must have a chrome, polished aluminum, or red handle at least two inches across. Dragsters or vehicles without bodies with turn style switches must have either a red switch handle or a three-inch red disk behind the switch handle.
