Getting Started

FIRST Tech Challenge teams have start-up and seasonal costs. We've prepared an example team budget to help you understand the cost to participate during the first and subsequent seasons.

Teams register with FIRST each season. Here's how:

• Create a FIRST account (or login if you already have an account).
• From the "My Teams" screen in the FIRST Dashboard, click the "Create a New Team" button and select FIRST Tech Challenge to start your team.
  • If you would like sales tax exemption, you may need to set up a Financial Guarantor.
• Click "Go to FIRST Storefront" to add items to your cart and checkout.

The following materials are required for competition and available on the FIRST Storefront:

• Driver Kit ($295): This is a cost-effective way to obtain a REV Driver Hub and two gamepads for wirelessly controlling the robot.

  • The Driver Hub is the standard, recommended way of controlling your team's robot, but may be replaced with certain Android devices if necessary. Reach out to the Program Delivery Partner for more information.

  • The REV USB Gamepads are one of several commercial gamepads that can be used. If you are interested in alternatives, reach out to the Program Delivery Partner for more information.

• REV Robotics Control Hub V1.1 ($350): This is a cost-effective way to obtain a REV Control Hub, a legal power switch (required), and several other cables that will be useful.

  • If possible, see if you can borrow a REV Control Hub for the 2026–2027 season.
  • This module enables the use of four motors out of a possible eight; you'll need to purchase a REV Expansion Hub to use all eight motors. REV Expansion Hubs will be useful in a hybrid electronic system for the 2027–2028 season. Contact the Program Delivery Partner for information and advice on purchasing.

Several manufacturers offer starter kits and seasonal update packages. It is not required to purchase a kit, but many teams find it helpful to start with a kit. The REV Robotics kit is available on the FIRST Storefront, but we encourage considering all of the options:

• AndyMark: designed for students with limited or developing dexterity
• goBILDA: a popular choice among FIRST Tech Challenge teams
• REV Robotics: available for payment using FIRST-administered grants
• Studica: a color-customizable and cross-compatible build system

Optional extras available on the storefront or directly from AndyMark include:

• Field Perimeter ($740): Useful for many years, this is the "cage" that defines the playing field.
• Field Soft Tiles ($293): Useful for several years (until worn out), this is the "floor" that defines the playing field.
• Half or Full Game Set ($399–599): Useful for the current season, this set contains the season-specific playing elements.

We recommend prioritizing a half or full game set, according to your budget. It is also possible to find other non-competition-legal soft tiles at reasonable prices.

Each season begins with a kickoff event. Here in Florida, we host a live broadcast on the day of the event with multiple in-person gatherings around the state. Check the event listing for one near you.

If you missed kickoff, you can watch the broadcast on YouTube.

Once you complete registration, you'll receive an introductory email. This email will introduce you to your local league. Leagues are the best source of local mentorship and information about events in your area.

Throughout the season, teams design, build, and iterate on their robot. Most teams structure their progress around their local league's event schedule.

Understand the different event types, how to prepare for an event, and when they are: