At the CLC Grand National, cars are not judged against each other; they are judged against the Authenticity Manuals for their specific year and model. The goal is simple but rigorous: "As it appeared when it left the showroom floor."

Unlike the AACA's 400-point scale, the CLC uses a 100-point system (often converted from a more detailed raw score).

• Authenticity: Is it factory-correct?
• Workmanship: Is the quality of the work professional?
• Condition: Is the car impeccably maintained?
• Operations: Does every light, switch, and mechanical component work?

• Score Required: 90+ points.
• Details: This is the first step for any car entering the Grand National. Every car must earn a Primary First Place before it can move up to the Senior level at a future show.
• Award: A beautiful First Place plaque/trophy.

• Score Required: 95+ points.
• Details: Once your car has earned a Primary First Place, it competes for the Senior Award at the next Grand National. This represents a higher level of excellence and scrutiny.
• Award: The prestigious Senior Award and a designation on your car's display.

• Score Required: 98+ points.
• Details: This is the "high-honors" version of the Senior award. It is reserved for cars that are nearly flawless in every category.
• Award: A specific award featuring the iconic Cadillac Wreath.

• Score Required: 99+ points.
• Details: The Senior Crown is the highest judging honor in the Cadillac & LaSalle Club. It requires a near-perfect 99-point score. Very few cars achieve this level, as it requires absolute perfection in authenticity and condition.
• Award: The coveted Senior Crown Trophy.

• Preservation Division: For original, unrestored cars (similar to HPOF in AACA). These cars are judged on how well they have been "preserved" rather than restored.
• Modified Division: For Cadillacs that have been personalized or updated while maintaining the spirit of the brand.
• Touring Division: For members who enjoy driving their Cadillacs. These cars are judged with a slightly different emphasis, allowing for the minor "wear and tear" that comes from the open road.

1. Join the National CLC: You must be a member to enter a car for judging.
2. Get the Manual: Purchase the CLC Authenticity Manual for your specific car. It is the "Cheat Sheet" the judges use.
3. Functional Check: Before the show, make sure your clock, radio, and every single light bulb works—judges check everything!
4. Register: Sign up for the next Grand National and select "Primary Judging" for your first time.