How to Become a Contestant on The Amazing Race

If you dream of being a reality TV star and are ready for adventures around the globe, participating in The Amazing Race could be your chance! In this article, we will guide you on how to prepare for auditions and get onto this thrilling show.

Part One: Preparing Your Application

Step 1. Familiarize Yourself with the Show.

Step 1

First and foremost, watch The Amazing Race. It may sound cliché, but knowing the show is a crucial step. The more you understand its format and contestants, the easier it will be to convince producers that you’re a good fit.

Step 2. Understand the Requirements.

Step 2

Pay attention to the participant requirements. While there aren’t many restrictions, there are important criteria regarding age, citizenship, and physical fitness.

  • You and your partner must be at least 21 years old at the time filming begins.
  • Both contestants must be U.S. citizens and possess U.S. passports and driver’s licenses. Additionally, you must reside in the U.S.

Step 3. Ensure You Are Not Working on the Show.

  • You and your partner should be in good physical and mental health. If you become a semifinalist, you may need to provide a medical history.
  • If selected as a semifinalist, be prepared for physical and psychological testing.
  • You cannot be considered a candidate until you complete the audition.

Step 4. Evaluate Your Qualities.

Step 4

Consider whether you have the necessary qualities. Are you ready to showcase your skills during the auditions?

  • You need to be confident, curious, and adaptable to various situations. It’s also important to lead an active lifestyle that reflects your personality.

Step 5. Choose a Partner.

Step 5

Select a partner to participate with. You must submit a joint application, so it’s important that your partner is someone close to you.

  • Don’t hesitate to openly discuss your relationship. Since the show focuses on interactions, it’s important to be ready to share personal moments.
  • It’s best to choose someone you’ve known for a long time: a sibling, parent, child, or close friend. This will make solving issues easier.

Step 6. Keep Track of Deadlines.

Step 6

Be aware of the deadlines. Applications are accepted year-round, but if you want to be part of a specific season, find out when to submit.

  • Casting typically takes place 8-12 months before filming starts, and open applications for a particular season last 1-2 months.

Part Two: Utilize the Internet

Step 1. Record a Video with Your Partner.

Step 1

Create a video with your partner, no longer than 3 minutes. It’s important to showcase your skills and how you interact.

  • To grab the producers' attention, your video should be genuine and open. Show how you spend time together.
  • Talk about your skills and life experiences, emphasizing what might interest the producers.
  • Ensure the video is well-lit and that you can be clearly heard.
  • Shoot in horizontal format, and the file size should be at least 30 MB in one of the accepted formats.

Step 2. Prepare Photos.

Step 2

Gather your photos and those of your partner. Your application should include close-ups of both participants.

  • You’ll need both joint photos and individual portraits of each of you.
  • Each image should be at least 2.95 MB and in one of the specified formats.

Step 3. Submit Your Application Online.

Fill out the application on the show's official website.

  • You can find the application here: The Amazing Race Casting
  • You’ll need to provide your names, contact information, and a brief overview of your relationship with your partner.

Part Three: The Casting Process

Step 1. Find a Nearby Casting Call.

Step 1

Look for casting calls happening nearby. They are usually announced when producers are seeking new contestants for the next season.

Step 2. Sign Necessary Documents.

Sign documents that allow producers to use your video and edit it.

Step 3. Arrive Early for the Casting.

Step 3

Arrive 30-60 minutes before the casting starts to avoid long lines.

  • Don’t forget to bring snacks and water, as the wait may be lengthy.

Step 4. Fill Out the Application.

Step 4

You can fill out the application on site or download it in advance from the website.

  • It’s better to prepare the application ahead of time to avoid distractions during the casting process.

Step 5. Attend the Interview.

Step 5

When you are called, you’ll be invited for an interview where you need to discuss your motivations.

  • The interview usually lasts about 3 minutes, but it can vary depending on the number of participants.

Part Four: Final Steps

Step 1. Wait for a Response.

Step 1

If you are selected as a semifinalist, you will receive a notification via email.

  • If you don’t hear back, that’s normal — producers can’t contact all applicants.

Step 2. Attend the Final Interview if Invited.

Step 2

If chosen, you will be invited to a final interview in Los Angeles.

  • Semifinalists will be provided with housing and flights.

Step 3. Await the Final Decision.

Step 3

After the final interview, you will receive a notification about the result.

  • This may be done by phone or email.

Step 4. Reapply for the Next Season if Necessary.

Step 4

If you weren’t selected, don’t be discouraged! You can apply again for future seasons.

  • If you were a finalist, apply with a new partner; if not, you can choose your previous partner or a new one.