FAQ about HPDE and DE track events.

What is an HPDE and sometimes called DE?

HPDE is an acronym for High Performance Drivers Education. DE, Drivers Education is used by some motorsport groups, such as PCA (Porsche Club of America.)

An HPDE is an organized event held at a race track where drivers can bring their own cars to learn and improve their driving skills in a controlled, safe environment. It focuses on car control, track awareness, and driving techniques, rather than competition or racing. The goal is to provide a fun and educational experience for drivers of all skill levels. It is also a great way to learn your car, to improve your performance skills, and at speeds disallowed on most USA roads.

What happens at HPDE events?

1. Participants will be organized into 3 to 4 track groups. Selection will be based on their skill levels and driving experience.
   Your online registration information usually decides your group selection. However, at the event, drivers can qualify, ask or request a transfer to another group.

2. HPDE Groups
   From novice to advance solo. This can vary with the organization, the location, and the purpose of the event.
   HPDE groups receive both track time and class sessions following their track session.

3. Instruction from experienced track drivers in a controlled and measured environment:

   Novice Drivers: Typically have in-car instructors or coaches to provide guidance.

   Intermediate Drivers: Typically have access to more advanced coaching and may be allowed to drive solo

   Advanced Drivers: Typically, they drive solo. They can have access to more advanced coaching or data analysis.
   Often there is a 4th Group. Some groups have an A or B novice (complete novice or novice to this track.) Many groups have an A or B advanced group – usually divided by horsepower.

4. Track Time:
   Participants get multiple sessions on the track, usually divided into 20–30-minute segments.

5. Safety:
   The emphasis is on safe driving practices, with specific rules and procedures to minimize risks.
   Driver and vehicle safety will be emphasized at registration along with the appropriate information and must haves.

6. Learning Environment:
   Non-competitive, with a focus on skill development rather than racing.
   Instruction will be progressive.
   Advanced driving techniques, skills and track etiquette will be taught at the appropriate HPDE group

What are the Typical Run Groups?

HPDE events usually divide participants into different run groups based on their experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of the common run groups:

1. Novice Group:

• Who: First-time track drivers or those with very limited experience.

• Instruction: High level of instruction, often with mandatory classroom sessions and in-car instructors.

• Focus: Basic driving techniques, understanding racing lines, braking points, and cornering. Emphasis on safety and track etiquette.

• Pace: Slower speeds to allow for learning and getting comfortable with the track.

2. Intermediate Group:

• Who: Drivers with some track experience who are comfortable driving at higher speeds and have a good understanding of basic techniques.

• Instruction: May have optional in-car instruction and advanced classroom sessions.

• Focus: Refining techniques, learning more about vehicle dynamics, and beginning to explore more advanced concepts such as trail braking and proper throttle control.

• Pace: Moderate speeds with an emphasis on smoothness and consistency.

3. Advanced Group (s):

• Who: Experienced drivers who have attended multiple HPDEs and have demonstrated high levels of skill and car control.

• Instruction: Minimal to no in-car instruction; focus on advanced classroom sessions or data analysis.

• Focus: Perfecting advanced driving techniques, improving lap times, and understanding car setup.

• Pace: Higher speeds, with an emphasis on precision and consistency.

• Some groups, depending on numbers & cars registered, will have two advanced groups. Sometimes separated by horsepower, sometimes by driver skill levels.

4. Instructor/Advanced Solo Group:

• Who: Highly experienced drivers, may be from a race team with coaching and data analysis.

• Instruction: Typically, no instruction; these drivers may also serve as instructors for other groups.

• Focus: Fine-tuning skills, often with the fastest and most consistent lap times.

• Pace: Fastest group on the track, with drivers expected to handle their cars safely at high speeds.

What Happens at the Track?

Tech Inspection:

• Before participating, your car usually needs to pass a technical inspection to ensure it is safe for track use. This includes checking brakes, tires, suspension, fluids, and overall vehicle condition.

• Tech inspection forms can be accessed with your online registration.

• Tech inspection will also happen at the track, and this will include checking your helmet.

Driver's Meetings:

• Your HPDE event starts with a generic mandatory driver meeting where all drivers gather to review the day's schedule, safety rules – all relevant information

• This meeting will be followed by separate meetings for each run group. These introduce appropriate information for that group such as introducing your instructors, track layout, flags, safety protocols, passing zones, and more.

AN EMPHASIS WILL BE PLACED ON…

Flags and Signals:

• Learning the meaning of different flags (e.g., yellow for caution, red for stop, black for mechanical issue) is crucial for safe participation.

Track Etiquette:

• Understanding and adhering to rules about passing (usually only in designated zones with a point-by from the driver being passed), pit entry and exit procedures, and general on-track behavior that is essential for you and your fellow participants safety.

By participating in an HPDE, you will have the opportunity to learn more about your car’s capabilities and your own driving skills in a safe, controlled environment. It’s a great way to enjoy high-performance driving while improving your abilities and knowledge.

You will have fun, but come prepared.