HPDE / Track Rules

High Performance Driver Education (HPDE) gives you a chance to develop your driving skills on a road course in a structured learning environment. The focus is on smooth inputs, awareness, car control, and learning at a comfortable pace. HPDE is a driving school, not a race.

Whether you’re attending your first track day or returning with years of experience, everyone shares the same responsibility: drive predictably, respect other drivers, and follow instructions from event staff.

Run Groups & Instruction

Drivers are divided into run groups based on experience and demonstrated ability. Groups rotate through the day, with one group on track while others attend classroom sessions, review with instructors, or prepare for their next session.

THSCC’s current format includes:

Green — Beginner: Drivers building their foundation, with an assigned in-car instructor.
Yellow — Intermediate: Drivers developing consistency and independence. Instruction may be requested.
Blue — Upper Intermediate: Experienced solo drivers refining their skills and traffic awareness.
Red — Advanced: Drivers who have demonstrated strong car control and traffic management.

Event staff make final group assignments using your experience and previous instructor evaluations. Keep your MotorsportReg driving history current.

What Is a Track Session?

A session is a scheduled block of driving time for your run group. You’ll drive multiple laps, practicing the skills discussed with your instructor or in the classroom.

For the current THSCC event, student drivers can expect four 25-minute sessions each day, with classroom discussions between sessions for instructed groups. Session lengths and counts may vary by event.

You don’t need to drive every minute of a session. Come into the pits if you need a break, have a concern about the car, or want to discuss something with your instructor.

A Typical Day

The published event schedule provides your exact meeting, classroom, and driving times. A typical day follows this pattern:

Part of the day	What to expect
Early morning	Arrive, check in, complete waivers, unload, and finish required vehicle checks.
Drivers’ meeting	Review flags, passing procedures, track entry and exit, and event announcements.
Morning sessions	Run groups rotate through driving sessions, with classroom time and instructor discussions between runs.
Lunch break	Eat, hydrate, check the car, and prepare for the afternoon.
Afternoon sessions	Continue practicing, applying feedback, and building consistency.
End of day	Debrief, pack up, and prepare for the drive home or the following day.

Allow plenty of time in the morning. Follow the event instructions for required meetings and arrive at grid ready before your group’s session.

Passing & Track Etiquette

Passing procedures depend on your run group and the event’s rules. Review permitted passing areas and point-by signals during the drivers’ meeting.

Pass only when permitted and after receiving the required point-by.
Stay predictable and give other drivers room.
Let faster traffic through at the next permitted opportunity.
Never pressure another driver into allowing a pass.
Follow flags and instructions from corner workers, instructors, and event staff immediately.

Knowing what to do when a session is stopped is part of being ready to drive. Ask for clarification before going on track if any flag or procedure is unclear.

Between Sessions

Use the time between runs to attend scheduled classroom sessions, talk with your instructor, hydrate, and check your car. Pay attention to tires, fluid levels, fuel, and anything that feels or sounds different.

Remove loose items before driving and secure your equipment in the paddock. Drive slowly around people and parked vehicles, and follow the facility’s posted speed limits.

Before You Arrive

Read the registration requirements and pre-event email carefully. They explain vehicle inspection, required equipment, clothing, arrival procedures, and facility rules. Complete any required inspection before the event and bring the necessary paperwork.

For registration information, or student questions regarding HPDE, please contact the Event Organizers.

For Technical / Safety issues, email the Tech Crew

For Instructor questions, or to apply to become an instructor, please contact the Lead Instructor.

Tech Form: thscc tech 2.pdf