Since it is a test and tune, I am not sure what format they will be running. The below mainly applies for the normal points events.
This is my basic list of things and expectations.
1.) Non-alcholoic beverages for when you are cone fetching.
2.) A good hat - Bham has pop-up tents for course worker stations, but a hat works good to.
3.) Shoe Polish or masking tape for number and class marking on the window or side of the car. If you are going to do this for a while, then magnetic numbers can be purchaced.
4.) Rain jacket - just in case.
5.) Money - Entry Fee :)
6.) Paitence - Sometimes, depending on class and tune of car you might not run for a couple of hours. You might be cone fetching first. They usually let the carts run first to get all of their runs out of the way since mostly it is kids running in them. You work while the other batch of classes runs.
7.) Good shoes to walk the course in. Birmingham has a big area, and as such can have some long courses. You will want to walk the course at least twice. Pair up with someone who has run an auto-x a few times and they can help point out a few things to you that will help you improve.
8.) You will want to get some passenger seat time with some of the other competitors. Almost everybody out there has no problem letting someone ride on their first couple of passes. The last two passes are kind of reserved for guys trying to get their personal FTD.
9). A plasitc container to store a few things in while you are running your car. You might want to take your spare tire out. And you will have to remove anything loose from the inside of the car before you run. Floor mats need to be removed to. A plastic bin is great for storring that stuff in while you run, then putting your helmet, and other pieces and parts in after you run.
10.) HELMET! Must be M-95 or better as of Jan 1 2005. M is for motorcycle helmets, SA is automotive. They do have a limited supply of loaners, but like all loaner helmets, they have been on other people's sweaty heads. :) A decent open face M rated helmet can be had for less than $150 bucks. Must cover your ears and stuff, no goofy ass little pot helmets like the harley folks wear.
11.) Get there EARLY. Time flies when preping and walking the course. Get their as early as possible to get everything ready so you are not more rushed. Do as much prep as possible before getting to the site.
that is a good start. The people in Birmingham have been great. It is a low pressure environment and they really like to help the n00bs out.
There are a few more places to look. Most relevant is <a href="www.alscca.org">The Alabama SCCA website</a>.
Good Luck