Everything you need to know to crush your first (or next) track day. From prep to podium, we've got you covered.
Beginner Friendly
Safety First
Stock Car OK
Pure Fun
Track days are organized events where you can drive your own car on a real race circuit in a safe, controlled environment.
Unlike street driving, track days give you the opportunity to push your car (and yourself) to the limit without worrying about traffic, speed limits, or police. You'll be grouped with drivers of similar skill levels and coached by experienced instructors.
Best of all: You don't need a race car. Your daily driver is welcome! Whether you're in a bone-stock Miata or a built GT-R, there's a place for you at the track.
High Performance Driving Event
Perfect for beginners. Instructors ride with you, teach proper racing lines, and help you improve. Divided into skill-based run groups.
✓ Best for first-timers
Also called Track Days
More relaxed format. Drive at your own pace, no instruction required. Groups based on speed. Great for experienced drivers who want seat time.
✓ For intermediate drivers
Competitive Lapping
Timed sessions where you compete for fastest lap. More serious, competitive atmosphere. Requires safety equipment and tech inspection.
✓ For advanced drivers
Everyone is there to have fun and improve. Car enthusiasts are welcoming and helpful.
Run-off areas, safety barriers, trained corner workers, and strict rules make tracks far safer than streets.
You'll learn proper driving techniques that make you a better, safer driver on the street too.
Warning: Track days are highly addictive. Your first one won't be your last!
Good news: You don't need a race car. Your daily driver can hit the track with minimal prep.
Brake Fluid
Flush with high-temp fluid (DOT 4 minimum, DOT 5.1 better)
Brake Pads
At least 50% life remaining, consider track pads
Tire Condition
Good tread, proper pressure (check when hot)
Fluids
Fresh oil, coolant, check for leaks
Battery
Secure mounting, no corrosion
Loose Items
Remove everything from car interior and trunk
Performance Brake Pads
High-temp pads prevent fade (Hawk, EBC, Carbotech)
Brake Cooling
Ducts or backing plates help on long sessions
Stickier Tires
200-300 treadwear sport tires make a huge difference
Suspension
Not required, but coilovers improve handling dramatically
Engine Oil Cooler
Turbocharged cars benefit from extra cooling
Note: Start with a stock car. You'll learn what upgrades YOU actually need after a few events.
REQUIRED
Snell SA or M rated, within 10 years. DOT-only usually not accepted. Loaner helmets sometimes available.
REQUIRED
Long sleeves, long pants, closed-toe shoes. Cotton preferred. Fire suits optional for beginners.
RECOMMENDED
Mounted and easily accessible. Some tracks require, others recommend. Better safe than sorry.
REQUIRED
Safety check before hitting track. They'll inspect brakes, battery, fluid leaks, wheels, seat belts.
Don't Skip Safety Gear!
Tracks are serious about safety requirements. You'll be turned away if you don't meet them. Call ahead to confirm what's needed at your specific event.
Follow these golden rules and you'll fit right in from day one.
Point-By System
The car in front points you by (hand signal) to allow passing. NEVER pass without a point-by.
Straights Only
Most beginner groups only allow passing on straights, not in corners. Advanced groups may allow point-by anywhere.
Give Space
When being passed, hold your line. When passing, give the other car plenty of room.
Check Mirrors
Always know who's around you. Point people by promptly—don't hold them up.
Green Flag
Track is clear, go racing!
Yellow Flag
Caution! Slow down, no passing. Incident or debris ahead.
Red Flag
Session stopped. Slow down immediately and return to pit lane.
Black Flag
You specifically must come in. Mechanical issue or rule violation.
White Flag
Final lap of session OR slow vehicle on track.
Checkered Flag
Session over. Cool down lap and return to paddock.
Master these fundamentals and you'll be faster than 80% of beginners.
Your eyes lead your hands. Look where you want to go, not where you are.
Smooth is fast. Jerky movements upset the car. Be deliberate and smooth.
Brake before the corner, not in it. Slow in, fast out wins races.
Outside-inside-outside. Use the whole track. Apex late, not early.
Track days aren't cheap, but they're worth every penny. Here's what to expect.
Entry Fee
$200-500
Per day, varies by track and organizer
Fuel
$50-150
You'll use a full tank or more
Tires/Brakes
$50-200
Wear per day (amortized cost)
Total
$300-850
Per track day, all-in
Pro Tip: Start with 1-2 track days per year. As you get hooked (and you will), budget accordingly. Track insurance is also available for peace of mind.
We'll get your car track-ready with pre-event inspections, performance upgrades, and expert advice.
Complete safety check to ensure your car passes tech inspection
Brake fluid flush, pad inspection, alignment, tire pressure
Brakes, suspension, cooling—we'll recommend what YOU need
Need help at the track? We offer mobile service for events
We track our own cars—we know what works and what doesn't
Quality work at fair prices—no track tax markup
Questions? Email us at [email protected]
Track days change lives. You'll meet incredible people, push yourself beyond what you thought possible, and fall even more in love with driving. Don't overthink it—just sign up for your first event. We'll help you prep. See you at the track!