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BMW ACA Portland  --  HPDE FaqS

What do I need to participate

A car (daily driver is OK) and a current helmet are all you need to have a ton of fun. You must be 18 or older with a valid full driver’s license. This is not a competitive or timed event.  It's meant to be interactive and educational in the dynamics of driving at speed in a safe and controlled manner.


What are the run groups

Advanced, Intermediate, Novice, Instructor.  Each category is dependent on several factors, including skill level, vehicle, experience, etc.


Do I need a Helmet
Yes, We accept Snell rated helmets with SA or M ratings with a rating date of 2015 or 2010. Helmets that have one of the following stickers inside the liner are acceptable: SA2015, SA2010, M2015, M2010.  We usually have several helmets on hand to purchase if needed - contact us ahead of time to verify.


What about convertibles, open wheels, roll bars, or test and tune options

Contact the Driving Chair with specific questions.

Does my car need a Tech Inspection before the event
No, we’ll do a basic tech inspection at the track before the event starts. Tech inspections usually begin around 7:15 AM and run until the Drivers meeting or all cars are through the Tech Line. Tech is done by the guys at AR Auto Service from Lake Oswego. Of course, it's a good idea to have your car regularly inspected and maintained for safety purposes, especially ahead of a driving event.  That being said, you should know your car is in good mechanical condition, you should have a good amount of brake pad left, and you will want to make sure you have decent tread depth left, especially if there is a chance of rain.

How is the day structured
When you arrive at the front gate you’ll sign in and receive a tech sheet. Proceed to the paddock and select a pit spot.  Unload your car.  Get in the Tech Line, marked by cones, located on the west side of the Fast Track Cafe.  After completing tech go to Registration to turn in your approved tech sheet, and to get a group and car number sticker. There will be a Driver Meeting about 8:15 AM.  Any instructor/student pairings will be announced at the meeting. Following the meeting we will start cycling through the posted run groups of Advanced, Intermediate, Novice and Instructor. See the Event Schedule for the exact order and times.  Note: after the Drivers meeting there is a ground school for all Novice students before their first on track session (Covid-19 dependent).

What should I bring
Your car will need to be cleaned out and nothing loose should be left in the car (including trunk, door pockets or under the seat). If you haven’t cleaned out your car before the event, you might want to consider a tote to hold all of your stuff. You’ll likely want to bring a tire gauge, several tools, and perhaps a torque wrench if you own one. Some other things that you are likely to want or need are sunscreen, hat, rain gear, chair, water and food if you don’t want to run out off-premise during the lunch hour. We want you to hydrate throughout the day.

Refunds
Official policy is no refunds, however we are willing to transfer a registration to a later event in the same calendar year, if space is available.

Am I allowed to take passengers for a ride
We allow helmeted passengers in the Intermediate or Advanced run groups, but sorry no passengers in the Novice group except an Instructor.

Are spectators allowed
Spectators are welcome (Covid-19 dependent) - all that is required is that you sign the liability waivers when you enter the facility.

When should I arrive
Gates open at 7:00 AM, and you want to arrive early enough to get a favorite spot, unload and work through the Tech Line before the Driver Meeting at 8:15 AM.

I’m a beginner, will I have an Instructor
Yes, all Novice students will be paired with an Instructor for the day (Covid-19 dependent). Students in the Intermediate group can request an instructor if desired and available. If you are experienced and have not previously driven PIR, please speak with Registration and/or the Driving Chair.

How much track time will I get
In general there are 4 sessions of 20 minutes each spread across the day.

Is passing allowed
Yes, passing is allowed in designated area only. Passing rules are graduated, i.e. there are more passing zones available as you move up the run groups.


Do I need to know about track flags

Yes, it's important to understand and obey the various flags displayed for your safety and that of fellow participants and staff.


How do I sign up
Registration is done through MotorsportReg.com. Our club landing page lists events at: portlandbmwclub.MotorsportReg.com

If something happens will my insurance cover it
Be aware of any limitations with your auto insurance coverage at HPDEs. Recent changes to automobile policies could affect coverage while at a driving school – check your policy for your coverage limits. While damage to your car at driving events is rare, it can happen. Consult the Driving Chair and/or your insurance agent or carrier if in doubt.  Remember this is not a timed or competitive event.  You can also purchase HPDE specific insurance, available from Lockton Affinity, or see the links on MotorsportReg.com.