What is "HPDE"?
HPDE means High Performance Driving
Event. You have always wanted to know what your car could do, but
you know the streets and  highways are not the place. HPDEs gives you and
your car an easy, safe, and affordable way to get on the track! No speed
limits, no pedestrians, but best of all, no tickets. HPDEs allow you to learn how to handle your car at the limit. You set your own goals and go
as fast as you feel comfortable going. You can progress as far as you
want, even get a competition license.
How?
Basically, all you need is a safe car and a helmet. The car does not have to be
fancy or fast. Drivers bring everything from a Hyundai to a Ferrari. Read the
requirements for the other miscellaneous items required.
Who?
Anyone may participate. Minimum age is usually 18 (depends on the event
organizer). Many different types of people enter HPDEs.
Accidents:
Body damage to cars very rarely occurs, however you are encouraged to check with
your insurance company regarding coverage. Most insurance companies cover
damages to your car during the school (HPDE) portion of the event. Be careful if
they tell that it is not covered. Agents have been wrong before. Ask them for a
list of "exclusions" in YOUR policy and consult an expert.
Full Course:
Drivers are separated according to their experience level into three basic run
groups: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. There are no speed limits in
any of the groups. Novice drivers should be assigned instructors for safety
reasons.
Run Group Explanation:
Beginner
This is where you begin. This is one on one guidance from a instructor, as you
learn to control your car and yourself. Your mentor will provide you with
guidance as you learn to drive at the limit. You will address how to approach a
turn, the fast way around it, what gear should you be in, how to brake, and how
to exit. The session generally includes a lead-follow session. Passing is very
limited in the Beginner group sessions. Passing is usually only allowed in the
longest straight section of the track for Beginners.
Intermediate
You can drive on your own and with less supervision. You apply what you learned
in the Beginner group sessions. The pace is faster, and the passing rules are
more relaxed. Usually passing is allowed on any straight section of the track.
Advanced
You have progressed to the world of high performance driving. The passing rules
are not as strict. You must learn to share the track at high speeds with others.
No passing restrictions except those of good judgment (safe) and rules of the
road etiquette.
Requirements:
- Any car in safe operating condition (from Ferrari to Hyundai) that
passes tech inspection.
- Mufflers. Different tracks have different sound policies. Some allow
open exhausts.
- Roll bars in convertible autos. Some events do not require this.
- Seat belts in good working order.
- State driver's license.
- Long sleeve shirt and pants (cotton is great).
- A helmet that meets Snell 95 or higher safety ratings.
- Knowledge of the event regulations.
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