i've never done this before.. and im very tempted to put a deposite on the RX-8 since its refundable.
so what do i need for preorder? do i just walk in, give him 500 and the trim/option i want, put down my name and thats it? or do i need to hvae like drivers liscense, credit card.. etc

He'll probably ask you for a few extras... driver's license might be one of them as it's easy for them to get an ID for you on the car you picked :) They got my license, personal info (telephone, addy, etc), and the order I requested.

So walk in, get your $500 ready (I'd put it on my Amex as if they don't refund it, your Amex will), and place your order!

I had never preordered until I preordered the RX-8. For me, they basically went through the whole buying process. So to answer your question, yes, you need your driver's license, bleh, bleh. I was asked to put down a $1000 deposit (on Amex), to which I complied because in Toronto, there aren't many "free" preorder slots left.

This was my first also.
I went in gave them the cashola and they asked for the standard stuff. They might ask for your social security # too run your credit. I told them they did'nt need it yet so they did'nt insist. They will ask what trim and options you want. You may also be able to chose what month you want delivery if posible.