HPDE/Open Track
Important Note: For in depth rules for HPDE participation please download the Club Codes and Regulations (CCR) to get specifications on racing harnesses, seats, roll bar, and other safety related items. As a general rule, an "unmodified" factory vehicle will pass tech without any problems, but cars that have been modified (seats, roll bars, belts, etc) must conform to the preparation rules listed in the rulebook.
NEW!!! NASA Time Trial Website
Drive your car on America's most famous road courses!
You have always wanted to know what "she could do", but you know the
streets and highways are not the place. NASA 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. The NASA HPDE provide you with
an experienced racer to help guide you through the event, one on one,
as you 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. Students bring everything from a Hyundai to a
Ferrari. Read the requirements for the other miscellaneous items
required.
Who?
Anyone who is a member of NASA (or a NASA sanctioned car club, such as
INEX) may participate. Minimum age is 18 (16 with parental consent).
Many different types of people enter our events. The number of women
who are taking our courses has steadily increased and most are very
eager to enhance their driving skills. A lot of husbands and wives also
team up and use only one car which makes it a little bit more
convenient. There are many teenagers and young adults who receive a
school entry compliments of their parents who want to teach their kids
to be safer drivers.
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:
The student participants are separated according to their experience
level into four basic groups: One, Two, Three, and Four. There are no
speed limits in any of the groups, and the novice drivers are assigned
instructors for safety reasons. personal attention is paid to every
student.
Run Group Explanation:
Group one (1)
This is where you begin. This is one on one guidance from experienced
racers, 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 Group 1
Sessions.
Group two (2)
Your mentor has determined you can drive on your own and with less
supervision. You apply what you learned in the group 1 sessions. The
pace is faster, and the passing rules are more relaxed.
Group three (3)
You have progressed to the world of high performance driving. The
passing rules in group 3 are not as strict. You must learn to share the
track at high speeds with others.
Group four (4)
Congratulations! You have made it, no passing restriction except those
of good judgment and rules of the road etiquette. You and your peers
are now experiencing the joys of doing it right in a safe environment!
You can now enjoy high performance driving at its finest. Those that
wish to can petition to apply for a competition license.
Time Trial
Time Trial Program- Compete for fastest time agaist other cars in your class. More information can be found here.
- Membership in NASA or a NASA sanctioned club
- Any car in safe operating condition (from Ferrari to Hyundai)
- Mufflers. Different tracks have different sound policies
- Roll bars in convertible autos
- Seat belts in good working order
- State driver's license
- Long sleeve shirt and pants (cotton is great)
- A helmet
- Knowledge of the Club Codes and Regulations
- At least 18 years of age (16 w/parental consent)
