The World Karting Association (WKA) was introduced in 1971 and has grown to over 10,000 active members, with races held on over 12 sanctioned tracks. There are 2 types of karts: Sprint and Enduro. Sprint karts are run on purpose built, .3 to .7 mile road race courses, or 1/6 to 1/4 mile dirt or paved ovals. Enduro karts are streamlined karts built for full size road courses like Daytona or Lowes Motor Speedway.

The WKA has 8 national series on dirt ovals, paved ovals, and road courses. Karts are equiped with engines ranging in power from 5-30 hp, and drivers ages starting at 5 years old. The major series for the WKA is the 10 race Stars of Karting series sponsored by the IRL.

Kart racing has produced such stars as Tony Stewart, Jeff Gordon, and Paul Tracy.