There are two ways to answer the question. From a technical perspective, Drivers Education (DE) is a program developed by the PCA to give drivers the opportunity to learn how to drive their cars on real racetracks in a safe, controlled and fun environment. Typically a DE event is run over 1, 2 or 3 days. Each day having four or five driving groups (divided by experience and skill level) on track 4 times for 20 to 30 minutes each. To ensure maximum safety and fun you're placed in a run group with other drivers with similar experience and skill levels. In the novice groups, drivers are accompanied by PCA trained and certified instructors who will teach you high performance driving techniques and fundamentals. DE driving is not racing or even preparation for racing. The events are not timed and there are no prizes. Prescribed passing zones and rules and codes of conduct add to the safe environment.
From an enthusiasts perspective, DE can easily become a lifestyle throughout the summer and in fact year 'round. Waking moments are spent at the track, or thinking about the next time there. We live for the rush of adrenaline that comes from moments like touching 150 mph just before jumping on the brakes at the “bus stop” at Watkins Glen. Or, allowing the car to drift out to the turn-in, at the end of the front straight before powering over a blind cresting apex at Mont Tremblant. Just as importantly, highpoints of our summer at DE events include laughing with new and old friends over the events of the day. Many attend only a few a days a year, and enjoy building their competency and letting the car do what it was built to do.
For this 2012 season we've lined up some great tracks and events; five different tracks as you'll see below, including two favorites in Canada and weekends at NHMS and WGI.
DE is a different experience for everyone. You've got to try it. The only critical components are desire and a car!
Drill deeply into the DE section of our web site, you'll find lots of information and helpful ideas. Hope to see you at the track.
NOTE: Instructors are no charge (N/C) for NHMS provided they register 21 days in advance. Instructor registration less than 21 days prior will be charged $75 per day to attend. Instructors who register less than 14 days in advance of events at other tracks, will be charged an extra $25 per day.
Driver Education 
