Keep in mind that you can do BIR's extended tech session so you can go through the "short" line to the left of the cement barriers at future events for the rest of the 2009 season. They will be offering it Friday and Saturday afternoon after they get through all the normal inspections to get everyone to the pits and running down the track.
IMO, at any bracket race the regular tech line should move as quickly as the "express lane" will at BIR. There is no need to write down all SFI numbers, etc. Check the date on the belts, helmet cert, license/chassis tag, and a quick visual inspection of the engine compartment and trunk. One can usually tell upon first glance which cars are legit and which require a closer examination.
You should never need to show up a day early to a bracket race just so you can get through tech without missing a run.