On drag racing rules it's best to go to the organization's website (NJBA) but please tell us about your float. Many guys here are circle racers and would love to help if you have the inclination to go for five miles at a time with five or so other boats and make occasional left hand turns. Drags are a good testing ground for straight line speed and acceleration but IMO only get the job half done when trying to get a riverboat up to it's maximum capability like to run hard through chop, get hosed down and not kill the engine, traffic avoidance, keeping your butt in the seat while the boat swaps ends, etc.  Don't get me wrong about purpose built 7 sec drag boats they are amazing but it sounds like your boat fits into the riverboat mold and you might consider Nostalgia or Comp Jet circles. 

For the river racer classes and the ET classes you'll be fine. Remove your interior (except for drivers seat of course) and you will need a kill switch with lanyard that will hook up to your vest.  Safety equipment includes long sleeve shirt and long pants ( driving suit preferred), life jacket ( like a lifeline, not a ski vest) and helmet. I think they also require a fire extinguisher. Rope deflector is required.  I'm an old racer from thirty+ years ago so I'm not necessarily up to the current requirements so before you pack up and leave for a race I would get in touch with the NJBA safety inspector tell him your a rooky and tell him what you have.  They love to have new people and will work with you.  For your first race be early so if something's not right you will have time to fix it. you also want as much practice time as you can to start to get the hang of the lights, launch and recovery techniques, check in, sign up and inspection procedures etc. If you have friends that will join you ( at least one to drive the tow rig to and from launch) check with NJBA on memberships required. Have fun and be safe.