NASA FL Region HPDE Group Selection Guidelines:

Group 1 :
This is where the fun and excitement of driving on track with NASA begins. Group 1 is designed for first time track day participants or those who have very limited number of track days. Learn the fundamentals of high performance driving through classroom and in-car instruction in a controlled environment. In-car instructor is included with the HPDE 1 entry fee. Passing is allowed on designated "straights" but only after a point-by from the driver ahead. HPDE "passport" logbook is issued for instructor signoff's after each track day. The time required for advancement from Group 1 to Group 2 is based on individual achievement, not the number of track days. However, several track days in Group 1 under the guidance of an in-car instructor is normally necessary in order to learn & practice the driving skills required to advance to Group 2.

Group 2 :
Novice "solo" drivers who have previous track experience and training equivalent to Group 1, but with a limited number of track days as a "solo" driver. Group 2 drivers must possess the basic knowledge of vehicle dynamics to be comfortable and capable to drive without an instructor. Group 2 drivers should be familiar with NASA grid procedures, passing rules and be able to respond properly to all flags. Classroom briefing session required before first track session. Passing is allowed on designated straights after a "point-by".  Registered passengers are allowed. Group 1 & Group 2 drivers share the same track sessions, thus allowing Group 2 drivers to practice and improve as a "solo" driver in a highly controlled environment before advancing to Group 3.

Group 3 :
The next step in the HPDE ladder system is for competent, qualified solo drivers with numerous track events. To qualify for Group 3 driver must possess all the skills and knowledge covered in Groups 1 & 2 or equivalent. Drivers in this group will experience extensive controlled passing and must be comfortable sharing the track "at speed" with other experienced drivers. Passing is allowed only within the designated straights. The requirement for a point-by (before overtaking) may be waived by the Group Leader. Registered passengers are allowed. First time participants in
Group 3 must list previous track training experience, # events as a "solo" driver in their "experience" section of their NASA membership profile page at the time of registration.

Group 4:
This is the top rung on the HPDE ladder for highly experienced drivers who have gone through all previous HPDE levels or equivalent, who possess extensive knowledge of the HPDE rules as described in the CCR, and who have training in an "open passing" road course track environment.
Group 4 is the ideal format for highly experienced drivers to enjoy their sports car on track with few restrictions other than those of good judgment and courtesy toward fellow drivers. Group 4 drivers will engage in "open passing" track sessions where there are no restrictions on when or where a pass can be safely completed. A VERY high level of skill and comfort is required. Proper conduct is a MUST! Wheel to wheel racing, overly aggressive driving, spins or offs will not be tolerated. To be considered for Group 4 participation, driver must list previous experience, # events, schools attended and licenses on the entry form for evaluation and approval. A check-ride will be required for first time participants. Passengers are NOT allowed during HPDE 4 track sessions.

HPDE Instructors :
To be added to the NASA FL "approved Instructor" roster, experienced instructors must submit a "FL Region Instructor Application" which will be followed by an interview with the Chief Instructor.  A minimum of 30 track events and past DE instructing history is preferred. Others will be considered as provisional HPDE instructor candidates on an individual basis after completing a NASA FL Instructor clinic and completing a check ride for evaluation. Instructors must have a thorough knowledge of HPDE rules as described in the current CCR and are expected to follow the approved NASA HPDE 1 teaching curriculum. To ensure a quality learning experience, instructors are paired with a single student each day. Instructors who are assigned a student or classroom training duty receive personal track time in HPDE at no charge. All "approved" instructors must be pre-registered no later than 2 weeks in advance of each event. Contact barbara@drivenasa.com for more information in getting involved.  

Important NOTE :

The HPDE Group Selection Guideline above is intended to covey important information to help new participants make an informed decision about which group to choose. In the interest of safety it is highly important that drivers register for the appropriate group that best fits their track driving experience. Drivers signing up for a higher group than what they are qualified for is a serious matter that can create an endangerment to themselves as well as other drivers. If a driver intentionally misrepresents his or her past driving history in order to register for a higher group, that driver may be subject to penalties including suspension for up to one year and forfeiture of their NASA membership. Those in doubt about which group to choose should either sign up for the lower group and request a "check ride" for evaluation at the event, or contact barbara@drivenasa.com for guidance before registering.

Other notes in regard to NASA FL HPDE:

*HPDE Groups 1, 2, 3, 4 receive 4 track sessions per day (conditions permitting).

*Track sessions are approximately 20-25 minutes in length (conditions permitting).

*Each HPDE track session contains maximum of 15 cars per mile of track.

* The word "solo" as used in HPDE refers to those without an in-car instructor.
Solo DOES NOT mean a single car on the track at a time . All HPDE groups have multiple cars sharing the same track sessions.

*In the situation that HPDE Group 2 & 3 or Group 3 & 4 would need to be combined in the same track sessions, the passing rules of the lower group will apply.

* All HPDE Groups are non-competitive and no official track timing is offered.

*Registered passengers are allowed in Groups 2 & 3 track sessions only.

*Participants must supply their own helmet appropriate for HPDE.

*Track apparel for NASA FL HPDE is long pants (no shorts), short sleeve cotton shirt and enclosed shoes.

*Registered drivers need to supply their own materials to make car numbers appropriate for HPDE.

*Each HPDE group is assigned a Team Leader (a Senior Instructor) to monitor the conduct of their group, answer questions and offer coaching tips.

* Download Meetings take place immediately after the first 3 track session per day for Groups 1,2,3 & 4. Attendance is mandatory. Those who fail to attend their group's Download Meetings may be penalized with loss of track time. The purpose of the meetings is to offer continual driver education and to resolve any group issues before the next track session. Downloads are fun and informative and offer a great format to meet peers, ask questions and continue to learn and improve track driving skills.

NASA FL Driver advancement in the HPDE ladder system:

Advancement from each level of HPDE is based on individual achievement, not the number of events spent in each Group.
A "check ride" for evaluation of driver skills and knowledge must be done in order to advance to the next group. Check rides are offered at each event. The Group Leader will assist their drivers in setting up an appointment with a "Check ride instructor".