For those new to HPDE

 

FAQs

Where can I find the schedule?

Click here for the full NER and NCR schedule. NER events are typically three days. You can sign up for one, two, or three. We hope to see you at the track!

Who can drive in a NER & NCR HPDE events?

All drivers, 18 years or older, with a valid driver’s license, are welcome to drive at NER and NCR HPDE events. For more information on requirements, see below.

What types of cars are allowed on track?

All vehicle makes are welcome at NER & NCR HPDE events.

Please also note PCA’s official position on “automatic emergency braking systems.”

Generally speaking, any Porsche that is ’as delivered‘ and is currently in good, safe working order will be capable of track driving. The same can be said of most sedans and coupes from other brands. SUVs, trucks, and minivans and generally not appropriate. Contact us if you have questions.

Please note the following:

  • PCA’s official position on “automatic emergency braking systems.”
  • All cabriolets (other than Porsche 996s, 997s and Boxsters) must be equipped with roll over protection (roll bar or roll cage).
  • Some older Porsches (pre-1969) may be required to modify the mountings of, or install, seat belts. Host web sites will give details of requirements and should be checked periodically to stay current with any changes. All vehicles are required to have at least 3-point seat belts.
  • All vehicle must be taken to a qualified tech inspector prior to the event and drivers must bring a signed tech inspection form to the event. See Tech Inspection.

What are the requirements to drive in HPDE?

  • Drivers must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license in hand at the event.
  • If a car on the track has a passenger, at least one (1) occupant must be an NER-approved instructor and the other must be a registered participant.
  • While we have professional corner workers at most events, most participants will have a work assignment. In fairness to fellow workers, any participant who is tardy or who fails to show up at his/her assigned station will forfeit time on the track.
  • No illegal or drowsiness-inducing drugs or alcohol consumption prior to or during the hours of the event by any person attending the event, driver or guest.
  • The Technical Inspection area of this site explains many very important requirements to note prior to coming to the track. Of particular note are harnesses and brake fluid.

NER reserves the right to refuse any entrant’s event registration or to expel any entrant during the event.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my registration?

Cancellations received up to two weeks before the event will receive a refund less the registration site’s handling fee. The refund may be in the form of credit for a future NER DE event.

For those new to DE

How can I learn more about HPDE?

Attend our HPDE Ground School. This Ground School is optional, but offers a great way to learn about HPDE and meet the people organizing these events.

We also offer two introductory programs for people who aren’t sure if HPDE is right for them, or want to take it a little slowly at first. Check out our HPDE Primer and Track Experience at Thompson Motorsports Park.

You can also contact our New Driver Liaison. Check out our contact page.

When you’re registered for an event, you’ll receive an email with the Track Pack, and “Online” Drivers Meeting. Review these carefully, as they contain important information and will help you prepare for the event.

Do I need a helmet or other special equipment?

A helmet is required. It must have the current available Snell Safety certified SA rating or the one previous Snell Safety certified SA rating. M-rated Snell approved helmets are permitted, but it is suggested to move to a Snell SA helmet in the higher run groups. The NER Track Committee recommends that you get a closed-face SA rated helmet for the additional safety it affords

For the 2025 season, we are accepting SA2015, SA2020, M2020, SA2025, and M2025. Other helmets are acceptable if they are approved for PCA Club Racing. SA2015 helmets are approved through February 28, 2026, which is a one-year extension due to SA2025 helmets becoming available only in October, 2025. Effective March 1, 2026, Snell SA2015 helmets will no longer be permitted.

In addition to your helmet, you will need to wear cotton or other natural fibers. Synthetic fibers are not allowed on track due to concerns in the event of a fire, with the exception of SFI or FIA certified racing suits and undergarments.

Many people who are regulars at HPDE or other track events invest in driving gloves and shoes. These are not required, but you should plan to wear thin-soled shoes that aren’t any wider then needed so that you can easily feel the pedals.

What is the Online Drivers Meeting?

Each day at an HPDE event, there is a mandatory morning drivers meeting to review critical information. In an effort to streamline this in-person meeting, we send out written information for everyone to read in advanced, called the “Online Drivers Meeting”. There is no scheduled event, and you can read this info on your own time. To ensure everyone has reviewed the material, each driver must print out the first page, fill it out, sign it, and bring it to registration.

What should I bring to the track?

Water, snacks, sun protection, your tech form, your online drivers meeting form, and excitement for driving and learning.

There’s much more to consider bringing. Check out our page covering this.

Do I need Track Insurance?

Track insurance for your car is not required. Most regular insurance policies for our cars will not cover incidents during HPDE events. There are several companies that offer insurance for cars used in HPDE events. Some offer season-long policies covering multiple events, which can make the per-event cost more affordable. Here’s some internet advice on track day insurance.