​High Performance Driver Education (HPDE) is a program that teaches drivers how to drive at high speeds safely on a racetrack. HPDE events are not timed events, and you are not aggressively racing another driver side by side.  Each car on the racetrack is spaced out evenly and has designated areas for “safe” passing, typically on a long straightaway. 

 

For those new to the HPDE, you will be assigned a driving instructor sitting next to you to give you advice and point out when to brake, how much brakes to apply, when to turn the steering wheel to set up for the ideal “racing” line and when to begin accelerating out of a turn.  

 

HPDE is a great way to understand your Porsche sports car’s handling dynamics, understand your comfort level, and how to drive your Porsche better in a safe, predictable environment. 

 

For beginners, you will be with other beginners who are also learning more about their Porsche driving dynamics, their driving skills as well as the racetrack course too!  This is more of an educational form of driving your Porsche sports car with other like-minded individuals and opens your eyes to the capabilities of your Porsche in a closed-circuit environment.  

​

What does HPDE teach? 

How to handle a car at its limit (within your comfort level). Instructors will respect your comfort level in how you would like to drive your car and teach you the following:

1. How to brake properly.

2. How to and when to shift gears.

3. How to follow track lines.

4. How to understand grip

5. To understand safety measures 

 

Who can participate?

• Anyone with a valid driver's license who is at least 18 years old 

• Drivers with street cars that meet basic safety requirements. 

 

How to prepare for an HPDE event?

1. Obtain or rent from the track a full-face Snell-approved SA 2015 or newer helmet.

2. Remove loose items from the interior of the car and trunk. 

3. Obtain Track Insurance (Optional). 

4. Street cars must pass a Tech Inspection. (Working lights, turn signals, enough brake pad and tire tread, working seat belt, and have the attached tech inspection form completed, bring this completed form with you on the day of the event)

5. Repair any areas of concern from Tech Inspection. Ensure no fluid leaks of any kind, and bring an updated tech inspection form on the day of the event.

 

What happens at an HPDE event? 

• Drivers attend a classroom session and on-track training led by instructors.

• Drivers are assigned to groups based on their experience level.

• Drivers meet their instructor on the grid and receive instructions.

• Drivers have their car inspected by a repair facility prior to the event and bring that form to the track.  (A short tech inspection will be done at the track prior to the event, and the completed tech inspection form will be collected).

• Drivers attend a driver's meeting.

• Drivers receive further instructions from their instructor.

 

HPDE Myths

 

1. I am with other drivers who have more driving and track experience than me.

• You are grouped with other drivers who have similar driving experience on the track.

• You are not grouped with other drivers who are more advanced than you on the track.

 

2. I am going to feel pressured to drive my car above my driving skills and limits.

• As a beginner, you will have a driving instructor next to you to coach you through the track course.

• You will only drive to your comfort and skill set. 

• Instructors will continue to assess your driving ability and your comfort as you progress through the track session.

 

3. I do not own a fast car with a lot of horsepower. I will not be able to keep up with other cars.

• You do not need to own a fast car with a lot of horsepower.

• The goal of HPDE is not to keep up with the other cars in your group.

• HPDE is focused on improving your driving skills in a controlled environment. 

• You do not have to worry about cross traffic, intersections, or pedestrians. 

• Every car is traveling in one direction.

 

4. I need to modify my car to be on the track.

• No special modifications are needed to take part in an HPDE event. Only repairs identified during a safety inspection need to be completed to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive while on the track.

• Cars that have been maintained regularly, are safe to operate on the street and have passed Tech Inspection will be allowed on the track. 

• In addition, a safety inspection will be conducted on the day of track event, too, to ensure there are no mechanical issues and no fluid leaks that can cause issues on the track and to the driver.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

1. Can any car go onto the racetrack? 

Generally speaking, all passenger vehicles (excluding electric vehicles, SUVs, and convertibles without a roll bar), whether this is a 2-door or 4-door vehicle, can participate in HPDEs as long as it has passed safety tech inspection.  You can have 100 horsepower or 500 horsepower. You will be allowed to be on the racetrack. Just be sure to follow the rules and instructions you have received from your instructor or at driver meetings.

 

2. What should I expect in my first session?

• First, there will be an HPDE novice group meeting.

• The day will be explained, and safety protocols (flags, passing, etc.) will be introduced and explained.

• Expect a slow pace to familiarize yourself with the track layout.

• The focus will be on learning the racing line, braking points, and safe passing zones.

• Sessions last between 20 - 25 minutes. This doesn’t appear long, but a proven, appropriate and safe length for novices.

 

3. What if I feel overwhelmed?

• You will get tired, more tired than you initially thought.

• Take a break if needed. Rest between sessions - hydrate.

• If you do not feel ready to go out for any sessions - then don’t.

• Instructors and event staff are there to help. Communicate any concerns, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

 

4. How do I stay safe on the track?

• Listen to your Instructor: Follow their guidance closely. Respect their experience and knowledge.

• Your instructor will look for repeated, smooth & consistent laps. Instructors will not be happy (or impressed) if your focus is on your speed and disregard for not following or not following proper track etiquette.

• Smooth & consistent cohesive handling of your steering wheel, brakes, and throttle.

• Situational Awareness: you must be aware of your surroundings and other cars.

• Flags: Learn and obey all flag signals.

​

5. What is the proper track etiquette?

• Passing: For novices passing is allowed only in designated passing zones

• Passing: only happens when signaled by the driver ahead.

• Open Passing: is only allowed in the Experienced Solo designated HPDE or racing groups.

• Mirrors: Check your mirrors frequently and use hand signals to let the faster cars pass.

• Cool-Down Laps: Use cool-down laps to let your car recover before entering the pits.

 

6. What should I bring with me on track days?

• Snacks and water or Gatorade to refresh yourself.

• Extra quart of oil. Your car may consume some oil due to high temperatures and constant driving at higher RPMs.

• Tire pressure gauge to check tire pressures and make any adjustments.

• Portable tire inflator to adjust your tire pressures.

• Extra shirts, socks, pants, sneakers, and towels because it is typically very hot at the track and in your car.

• Any small tools you feel you need in case of any minor adjustments needed.

​

​