Run Groups Explained

We take driver classification seriously. Understanding which group fits your experience level ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable time on track.

Why Classification Matters

These classifications are often asked about and we take them quite seriously. The reason is simple: we need to verify driver experience before placing you in a run group to ensure the safety of all participants. Even with extensive street driving, autocross, or Lemons/Champcar experience, if you haven't had certified in-car instruction at an HPDE event, you'll start in our Novice Instructed group.

Your Progression Path

Novice Instructed
0-4 events
Novice Solo
4-6 events
Intermediate 1
6-12 events
Intermediate 2
13-15 events
Advanced
25+ events
NOV-I
Novice Instructed

Novice Instructed

0-4 weekend events

For drivers starting out through their first 4 weekend events. Even with street driving history, autocross, or Lemons/Champcar experience, if you have not driven in an HPDE environment with a certified instructor, this is your starting point. You'll receive real-time, in-car coaching from a certified instructor assigned specifically to you.

Passing Rules
Straights only with point-by
Instructor
Assigned certified instructor in-car
Classroom
Mandatory classroom session included
Additional Fee
$75-$100 instructor fee required
NOV-S
Novice Solo

Novice Solo

4-6 weekend events

For drivers with 4-6 weekend events who have had an instructor in prior events and received solo approval from their instructor. You'll be on track at the same time as Novice-Instructed drivers but without an instructor in your car. This is where you begin developing independence while still in a controlled environment.

Passing Rules
Straights only with point-by
Instructor
No instructor required (solo approved)
Track Time
Shares sessions with Novice Instructed
Additional Fee
No additional fee
INT-1
Intermediate 1

Intermediate 1

6-12 weekend events

For solo-approved drivers with 6+ weekend events ready to move out of the Novice group. You know the driving line, can drive with relative consistency, and have great awareness of corner stations, flags, and other cars on track. You're now focused on refinement and building consistency at higher speeds.

Passing Rules
Straights only with point-by
Pace
Moderate - focus on consistency
Session Timing
Greater time between sessions
Additional Fee
No additional fee
INT-2
Intermediate 2

Intermediate 2

13-15 weekend events

For drivers working on becoming advanced drivers. This is the bridge to the Advanced run group with increased passing opportunities. You're confident in your line, have solid awareness, and are ready for more dynamic track situations. This group prepares you for the expectations of Advanced driving.

Passing Rules
Anywhere on track with point-by
Pace
Higher pace expectations
Progression
Preparation for Advanced group
Additional Fee
No additional fee
ADV
Advanced

Advanced

25+ weekend events

For highly experienced drivers with 25+ weekend events. You must maintain speed through corners and never hold up faster drivers regardless of track position. This is a high-pace environment where awareness and courtesy are paramount. If a faster car approaches, you facilitate the pass immediately—no excuses.

Passing Rules
Open passing - must not impede faster traffic
Pace
Highest pace run group
Environment
Racing-adjacent experience
Additional Fee
No additional fee
INST
Instructor

Instructor

Certified instructors only

For certified HPDE instructors (Chin, NASA, BMWCCA, PCA, MSF Level 2, or equivalent). Instructors drive FREE and are assigned one novice student per event. Sessions run between Novice and Advanced groups to allow briefing time with students. This is our way of saying thank you for giving back to the community.

Passing Rules
Follows Advanced rules when solo
Assignment
One assigned student per event
Perks
Lunch provided, bottled water
Registration Fee
FREE

Quick Comparison

Run Group Experience Passing Rules Instructor Add'l Fee
Novice Instructed
0-4 events Straights with point-by Required (in-car) $75-$100
Novice Solo
4-6 events Straights with point-by Not required None
Intermediate 1
6-12 events Straights with point-by Not required None
Intermediate 2
13-15 events Anywhere with point-by Not required None
Advanced
25+ events Open passing Not required None
Instructor
Certified Advanced rules You are the instructor FREE

Ready to Hit the Track?

Find an upcoming event and register for the run group that matches your experience.

View Upcoming Events