Ultimate Guide

Track Day Survival Guide

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

What You'll Learn

Complete track day knowledge

Track Basics

What to expect

Car Prep

Get ready

Track Rules

Flags & etiquette

Cost Guide

Budget planning

3

Event Types

6

Track Flags

4

Driving Tips

Scroll to explore
The Basics

What is a Track Day?

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.

Types of Track Events

HPDE

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

Open Lapping

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

Time Attack

Competitive Lapping

Timed sessions where you compete for fastest lap. More serious, competitive atmosphere. Requires safety equipment and tech inspection.

For advanced drivers

What to Expect on Track Day

Friendly Community

Everyone is there to have fun and improve. Car enthusiasts are welcoming and helpful.

Extremely Safe

Run-off areas, safety barriers, trained corner workers, and strict rules make tracks far safer than streets.

Skill Development

You'll learn proper driving techniques that make you a better, safer driver on the street too.

Addictive Fun

Warning: Track days are highly addictive. Your first one won't be your last!

Preparation

Preparing Your Car

Good news: You don't need a race car. Your daily driver can hit the track with minimal prep.

Required Checks

  • Brake Fluid

    Flush with high-temp fluid (DOT 4 minimum)

  • Brake Pads

    At least 50% life remaining

  • Tire Condition

    Good tread, proper pressure (check when hot)

  • Fluids & Loose Items

    Fresh oil, coolant, remove interior items

Recommended Upgrades

  • Performance Brake Pads

    High-temp pads prevent fade (Hawk, EBC)

  • Stickier Tires

    200-300 treadwear sport tires

  • Suspension

    Coilovers improve handling dramatically

  • Oil Cooler

    Turbocharged cars benefit from extra cooling

Note: Start with a stock car. You'll learn what YOU actually need.

Safety Requirements

Helmet

REQUIRED

Snell SA or M rated, within 10 years

Clothing

REQUIRED

Long sleeves, pants, closed-toe shoes

Fire Extinguisher

RECOMMENDED

Mounted and easily accessible

Tech Inspection

REQUIRED

Safety check before hitting track

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 to Bring Checklist

Tools & Spares

  • Jack & stands
  • Torque wrench
  • Spare brake pads
  • Basic tool set
  • Tire pressure gauge

Fluids

  • Engine oil (1 quart)
  • Brake fluid
  • Coolant
  • Paper towels
  • Brake cleaner

Comfort Items

  • Chair/canopy
  • Cooler with drinks
  • Snacks/lunch
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Camera/GoPro
Etiquette

Track Rules & Etiquette

Follow these golden rules and you'll fit right in from day one.

Passing Rules

Point-By System

The car in front points you by. NEVER pass without a point-by.

Straights Only

Most beginner groups only allow passing on straights.

Give Space

When being passed, hold your line. Give plenty of room.

Flag Meanings

Green

Track is clear, go racing!

Yellow

Caution! Slow down, no passing

Red

Session stopped. Return to pit

Black

You must come in immediately

Checkered

Session over. Cool down lap

Basic Driving Tips

Master these fundamentals and you'll be faster than 80% of beginners.

Look Ahead

Your eyes lead your hands. Look where you want to go.

Smooth Inputs

Smooth is fast. Jerky movements upset the car.

Brake Early

Brake before the corner. Slow in, fast out.

Racing Line

Outside-inside-outside. Use the whole track.

Cost Breakdown

Track days aren't cheap, but they're worth every penny.

Entry Fee

$200-500

Per day, varies by track

Fuel

$50-150

Full tank or more

Tires/Brakes

$50-200

Wear per day (amortized)

Total

$300-850

Per track day, all-in

Pro Tip: Start with 1-2 track days per year. As you get hooked, budget accordingly. Track insurance is also available for peace of mind.

Ready to Hit the Track?

We'll get your car track-ready with pre-event inspections, performance upgrades, and expert advice.

Pre-Track Inspection

Complete safety check to pass tech inspection

Track Prep Service

Brake fluid, pads, alignment, tire pressure

Performance Upgrades

Brakes, suspension, cooling—what YOU need

Track-Side Support

Mobile service for events when you need it

Expert Advice

We track our cars—we know what works

Fair Pricing

Quality work, no track tax markup

Questions? Email us at [email protected]

You're Gonna Love It

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!