FAQs
General
How do I register for the SEMA Show?
The SEMA Show is a trade-only industry event; it is not open to the general public. However, if you are an employee of a company that is qualified to attend the show, log onto www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Attend Show.” Buyers, exhibitors and media can register here.
Can consumers attend the SEMA Show?
No, the SEMA Show is not open to the general public. The SEMA Show is a trade-only event and only qualified individuals employed within the aftermarket industry are permitted to enter the convention center. Unfortunately, the following business categories do not qualify to attend: accounting firms, consumers, freight providers, graphics companies (non-automotive), installation/dismantling companies, insurance agents, law firms, modeling agents/agencies, packaging companies, printers, software companies (non-automotive specific), travel agencies or any non-automotive company.
Do I have to be a SEMA member to attend the SEMA Show?
No, the company you are employed by does not have to be a SEMA member to attend the SEMA Show, but you do have to hold a qualified position and work within the industry. The SEMA Show registration process may require you to provide proof that you work within the industry.
I received postcards and/or an e-mail, but the registration system doesn’t seem to recognize my name, why is this?
It may be that you have used a different e-mail over the past 12 months to register for the Show, or your SEMA membership e-mail is different than the one we have on file at the registration company. Please double-check your e-mail address, and then click on company name and type in your company name to try and find your registration information that way.
How do I add a spouse?
After you register, the system will ask you if you wish to register another attendee, or a spouse. You can register your spouse at that time. If you have completed your registration and want to add a spouse at a later date, use the link in your confirmation to return to the dashboard and follow the instructions to add a spouse.
I am unable and/or unwilling to submit the documents you are asking for the Show.
The AAIW Joint Operating Committee and the association boards of directors require that Show Management be sure that everyone in attendance is involved in the automotive industry. If you have any questions or concerns, phone SEMA Show Management, at 702/450-7662 ext. 102.
The Registration company was unable to answer my question(s). Now what do I do?
Because each case is different, e-mail Registration@AAIWshow.com, or phone 702/450-7662, ext. 120 and someone will assist you.
I am an attendee (not media or non-exhibiting manufacturer) and I live in the U.S. When is the last day for me to register and still receive my badge in the mail?
The deadline is October 18, 2011. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
I live in the U.S. When will my badge be mailed to me?
Badges will be mailed out beginning mid-August and will continue to be mailed until October 17, as long as registration was completed by October 17. If you register after October 16, you must pick up your badge on-site at Will Call. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
How can I order tickets to the Special Events and educational sessions?
Tickets for the special events and educational sessions are available when registering for the Show. If you have already registered and would like to order special event tickets, simply follow the instructions and shortcut link in your registration confirmation e-mail or click here.
How do I reserve a meeting space?
You must be a SEMA Show exhibitor or buyer to reserve a meeting room at either the Las Vegas Convention Center or any Las Vegas Hotel. Exhibitors can reserve a meeting room by completing the form in the online Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com after June 1, 2012. Prior to that, you can contact Tricia Hanisko at SEMA Show Management, 702/450-7662, ext. 247, or e-mail thanisko@convexx.com.
I was denied registration. Why?
If you were denied registration, it may be because you are listed in the system as a member of one of the categories that AAIW does NOT permit to attend, or did not send in correct paperwork in previous years. In that case, e-mail Registration@AAIWshow.com with your name, company and web site and a method of communication; you will be contacted and given the opportunity to explain your situation. Or, if you would prefer to speak with someone directly, contact SEMA Show Management, at 702/450-7662, ext. 120.
Exhibitors
How do I register for the SEMA Show?
The SEMA Show is a trade-only industry event; it is not open to the general public. However, if you are an employee of a company that is qualified to attend the show, log onto www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Attend Show.” Buyers, exhibitors and media can register here.
Where can I find an exhibitor list for the SEMA Show?
To view a complete list of current exhibitors and to view a floorplan, go to www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Exhibitor List/Floorplan.”
How can I order tickets to the Special Events and educational sessions?
Tickets for the special events and educational sessions are available when registering for the Show. If you have already registered and would like to order special event tickets, simply follow the instructions and shortcut link in your registration confirmation e-mail or click here.
When will I receive my Exhibitor Manual?
The Exhibitor Manual will be available on-line at www.SEMAShow.com on June 1, 2012. If you require assistance or need more information, contact SEMA Show Management at 702/450-7662, ext. 120, or e-mail salesmgr@convexx.com.
How do I reserve a meeting space?
You must be a SEMA Show exhibitor or buyer to reserve a meeting room at either the Las Vegas Convention Center or any Las Vegas Hotel. Exhibitors can reserve a meeting room by completing the form in the online Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com after June 1, 2012. Prior to that, you can contact Tricia Hanisko at SEMA Show Management, 702/450-7662, ext. 247, or e-mail thanisko@convexx.com.
Can I have a meeting in my booth before or after Show Hours?
If you are an exhibitor you may host a meeting or event in your booth either two hours prior to the Show and post-Show hours, with Show Management permission. Please complete the form in the online Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com after June 1, 2012.
What access will my media credentials give me to the Show floor?
Media credentials allow the badge holder to access the SEMA Show floor during show hours only:
Tuesday, Nov. 1: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Wednesday, Nov. 2: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Thursday, Nov. 3: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Friday, Nov. 4: 9:00 am — 4:00 pm
Media from companies that are also exhibiting will receive “exhibiting media” badge holders, which allow access onto the Show floor two hours before regular show hours.
Attendees
How do I register for the SEMA Show?
The SEMA Show is a trade-only industry event; it is not open to the general public. However, if you are an employee of a company that is qualified to attend the show, log onto www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Attend Show.” Buyers, exhibitors and media can register here.
Can consumers attend the SEMA Show?
No, the SEMA Show is not open to the general public. The SEMA Show is a trade-only event and only qualified individuals employed within the aftermarket industry are permitted to enter the convention center. Unfortunately, the following business categories do not qualify to attend: accounting firms, consumers, freight providers, graphics companies (non-automotive), installation/dismantling companies, insurance agents, law firms, modeling agents/agencies, packaging companies, printers, software companies (non-automotive specific), travel agencies or any non-automotive company.
I need a visa to enter the U.S. How can I get a letter of invitation?
If you haven’t begun the registration process, go to www.SEMAShow.com and choose attendee registration; On the registration profile page, click on “need a visa letter.” If you have already registered and received confirmation, access your dashboard through the confirmation e-mail and click on “edit profile” on the dashboard; Once inside your profile page, click on “edit” again and click on “need visa”.
Do I have to be a SEMA member to attend the SEMA Show?
No, the company you are employed by does not have to be a SEMA member to attend the SEMA Show, but you do have to hold a qualified position and work within the industry. The SEMA Show registration process may require you to provide proof that you work within the industry.
Where can I find an exhibitor list for the SEMA Show?
To view a complete list of current exhibitors and to view a floorplan, go to www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Exhibitor List/Floorplan.”
What type of business documents do I need to register?
If you have not registered for the SEMA Show in the last few years and are not a member of SEMA, or AAIA, you may be required to send documentation. Documentation may include business cards, website, business license, yellow page listing and brochures. If you have registered in the past, been approved previously and have not changed company, you may not be required to show proof of involvement in the automotive trade. HOWEVER, NON-EXHIBITING MANUFACTURER/SUPPLIER/IMPORTER/EXPORTER must be approved annually. If you have questions about documentation required, contact SEMA Show Management, at 702/450-7662, ext. 120.
I received postcards and/or an e-mail, but the registration system doesn’t seem to recognize my name, why is this?
It may be that you have used a different e-mail over the past 12 months to register for the Show, or your SEMA membership e-mail is different than the one we have on file at the registration company. Please double-check your e-mail address, and then click on company name and type in your company name to try and find your registration information that way.
How many people from my company can go to the Show? It says “only two.”
If it says “only two,” that means the system recognizes your company’s name as a non-exhibiting manufacturer. If you have any questions, contact Susan Schwartz or Casie Stock at SEMA Show Management, Registration@AAIWshow.com, or phone 702/450-7662.
I didn’t print the acknowledgement, now what do I do?
You will receive confirmation by e-mail with your identification number. You can also determine your registration status online at “registration look-up” at www.SEMAShow.com under “Attend Show.”
How can I add one or more persons to my registration?
Use your confirmation e-mail to click through to the dashboard and click on “Add another”.
I was denied registration. Why?
If you were denied registration, it may be because you are listed in the system as a member of one of the categories that AAIW does NOT permit to attend, or did not send in correct paperwork in previous years. In that case, e-mail Registration@AAIWshow.com with your name, company and web site and a method of communication; you will be contacted and given the opportunity to explain your situation. Or, if you would prefer to speak with someone directly, contact SEMA Show Management, at 702/450-7662, ext. 120.
How do I add a spouse?
After you register, the system will ask you if you wish to register another attendee, or a spouse. You can register your spouse at that time. If you have completed your registration and want to add a spouse at a later date, use the link in your confirmation to return to the dashboard and click on "Add A Spouse".
I am unable and/or unwilling to submit the documents you are asking for the Show.
The AAIW Joint Operating Committee and the association boards of directors require that Show Management be sure that everyone in attendance is involved in the automotive industry. If you have any questions or concerns, phone SEMA Show Management, at 702/450-7662 ext. 120.
How can I update/edit the information that I put in?
E-mail AAPEXSEMA@compusystems.com with the information you wish to change after you have completed your online registration.
The Registration company was unable to answer my question(s). Now what do I do?
Because each case is different, e-mail Registration@AAIWshow.com, or phone 702/450-7662, ext. 120 and someone will assist you.
I registered multiple employees; however, some of their names aren’t showing up in the “check your registration status” system. Why is this?
E-mail AAPEXSEMA@CompuSystems.com and describe the situation. Someone will follow up with you via e-mail within 24 hours (one business day).
I am an attendee (not media or non-exhibiting manufacturer) and I live in the U.S. When is the last day for me to register and still receive my badge in the mail?
The deadline is October 16, 2012. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
I am an attendee (not media or non-exhibiting manufacturer) and do not live in the U.S. When is the last day for me to register online and still receive my badge in the mail?
The deadline is September 7, 2011. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
I live in the U.S. When will my badge be mailed to me?
Badges will be mailed out mid-August and will continue to be mailed until October 16, as long as registration was completed by October 16. If you register after October 15, you must pick up your badge on-site at Will Call. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
I do not live in the U.S. When will my badge be mailed to me?
Badges will begin mailing in mid-August and will continue to be mailed until September 17 as long as registration is completed by September 7. If you register after September 7, you must pick up your badge at the on-site Will Call. Media (including exhibiting media) and Non-Exhibiting Manufacturers must pick up their badges on-site.
How can I order tickets to the Special Events and educational sessions?
Tickets for the special events and educational sessions are available when registering for the Show. If you have already registered and would like to order special event tickets, simply follow the instructions and shortcut link in your registration confirmation e-mail or click here.
How do I reserve a meeting space?
You must be a SEMA Show exhibitor or buyer to reserve a meeting room at either the Las Vegas Convention Center or any Las Vegas Hotel. Exhibitors can reserve a meeting room by completing the form in the online Exhibitor Manual at www.SEMAShow.com after June 1, 2012. Prior to that, you can contact Tricia Hanisko at SEMA Show Management, 702/450-7662, ext. 247, or e-mail thanisko@convexx.com.
How can I obtain information on the new products at the SEMA Show?
There are a number of options available for obtaining new product information. One of the easiest ways is to utilize the New Products Showcase at the SEMA Show. At the New Products Showcase, buyers and media have the opportunity to check out a “scanning device.” The scanning device can be used to select the products you are interested in learning more about. You will be able to receive a print out and an e-mail that includes detailed information about the products you selected, as well as links to high-res photos of the products that can be downloaded quickly and easily.
Media
How do I register for the SEMA Show?
The SEMA Show is a trade-only industry event; it is not open to the general public. However, if you are an employee of a company that is qualified to attend the show, log onto www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Attend Show.” Buyers, exhibitors and media can register here.
Where can I find an exhibitor list for the SEMA Show?
To view a complete list of current exhibitors and to view a floorplan, go to www.SEMAShow.com and click on “Exhibitor List/Floorplan.”
How can I order tickets to the Special Events and educational sessions?
Tickets for the special events and educational sessions are available when registering for the Show. If you have already registered and would like to order special event tickets, simply follow the instructions and shortcut link in your registration confirmation e-mail or click here.
Who qualifies for media credentials?
Media credentials are reserved exclusively for working members of the media, including print, broadcast, radio or online. In order to maintain a B2B environment conducive for buyers and sellers to do business, media credentials are only available to media that are related to the automotive industry, or those that cover small businesses or another relevant topic.
Do public relations or marketing representatives qualify for media credentials?
Public relations and marketing personnel representing manufacturers do not qualify for media credentials. Video production companies that are representing exhibitors or those that are charging companies to be covered do not qualify for media credentials.
Approved individuals who abuse their media privileges or who misrepresent themselves in obtaining their media passes may risk having their credentials revoked, and their names banned from attending the SEMA Show in future years.
If I was approved for media credentials in the past, will I be approved for media credentials again?
Individuals who have been approved for media credentials in the past can use the e-mail address they used before to register this year. Even if the e-mail address has since changed, using the original e-mail address will pull up the individual’s record. (The applicant can then update his/her e-mail address.)
In most cases, the person will be automatically approved for media credentials. However, as part of the qualifying process, individuals are randomly audited and may need to re-submit qualifying materials.
What are qualifying media registration materials?
Qualifying materials may be required to validate that you are indeed affiliated with a media outlet that covers a topic that is relevant to the SEMA Show, and to provide insight on the plans of how the SEMA Show coverage will be used. Examples of qualifying materials include a business card, bylined article or photograph showing past work (within last 12 months), a copy of publication masthead with name and title, etc. The qualifying materials should show what the publication is, who it targets, what its readership is, etc.
Send qualifying information to one of the following:
E-mail: Media@AAIWshow.com
Attn: SEMA Show PR Dept.
Fax: 909/860-1709
Mail: 1575 S. Valley Vista Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
When and how will I receive my media badge?
All media badges are to be picked up in the Media Center, room S219 on the Skybridge between Central and South halls. The Media Center is open the following hours:
Friday, Oct. 26 -- Sunday, Oct. 28: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, Oct. 29: 7:30 am — 5:00 pm
Tuesday, Oct. 30: 7:00 am — 6:00 pm
Wednesday, Oct. 31: 7:30 am — 6:00 pm
Thursday, Nov. 1: 8:00 am — 5:30 pm
Friday, Nov. 2: 8:00 am — 3:00 pm
Can a friend or colleague pick up my media credentials for me?
Those who register and are approved in advance will need to present a photo ID to pick up their media credentials. You are not allowed to pick up credentials for colleagues.
What if I did not register or get approved in advance to attend as media? Can I still attend the show?
Yes. You can register on-site in the Media Center, room S219 at the show. However, we recommend you register in advance to expedite the process and ensure that you do qualify. To register onsite, bring two forms of qualifying materials to be approved for credentials as well as a photo ID.
What are the media center hours?
Media Center hours are as follows:
Friday, Oct. 26 -- Sunday, Oct. 28: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Monday, Oct. 29: 7:30 am — 5:00 pm
Tuesday, Oct. 30: 7:00 am — 6:00 pm
Wednesday, Oct. 31: 7:30 am — 6:00 pm
Thursday, Nov. 1: 8:00 am — 5:30 pm
Friday, Nov. 2: 8:00 am — 3:00 pm
What amenities are available in the media center?
Amenities in the Media Center include food and beverages, working stations, Internet access, complimentary copy machines, computers, printers, storage and lounging area. The Media Center also houses press kits and materials from SEMA and many exhibitors.
What access will my media credentials give me to the Show floor?
Media credentials allow the badge holder to access the SEMA Show floor during show hours only:
Tuesday, Oct. 30: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Wednesday, Oct. 31: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Thursday, Nov. 1: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Friday, Nov. 2: 9:00 am — 4:00 pm
Media from companies that are also exhibiting will receive “exhibiting media” badge holders, which allow access onto the Show floor two hours before regular show hours.
When is Media Day?
There is not a designated Media Day at the SEMA Show. Media activities take place throughout the course of the event. There is an official press conference schedule, at which time select exhibitors will be making newsworthy announcements. The press conference schedule will be available in mid-September online at www.SEMAShow.com and onsite in the Media Center.
How can I obtain information on the new products at the SEMA Show?
There are a number of options available for obtaining new product information. One of the easiest ways is to utilize the New Products Showcase at the SEMA Show. At the New Products Showcase, buyers and media have the opportunity to check out a “scanning device.” The scanning device can be used to select the products you are interested in learning more about. You will be able to receive a print out and an e-mail that includes detailed information about the products you selected, as well as links to high-res photos of the products that can be downloaded quickly and easily.