Pocono Raceway

POCONO RACEWAY HPDE TRACK DAY RULES & REGULATIONS

POCONO RACEWAY HPDE TRACK DAY RULES & REGULATIONS

DRIVER ELIGIBILITY

All drivers must be pre-registered at least 48 hours prior to the event.

Drivers must be 18 years of age or older, or possess a valid driver’s license. Drivers under 18 are permitted only if they have either a valid driver’s license or a competition license.

For drivers under 18:

  • A parent or legal guardian must remain on-site at all times
  • A minor release waiver must be signed

Advanced group drivers must have a competition license and/or proof of a solo sign-off from an accredited performance driving program (such as PCA or BMW Club).

All other drivers will be considered novices and are required to attend a track-run driver program. No prior experience is necessary to participate.

In rare instances, exceptions to the above requirements may be made at the discretion of event organizers.

REQUIRED DRIVER GEAR

Drivers are responsible for providing all of their own gear, which must include:

  • Closed-toe, lace-up shoes
  • Full-length pants
  • Long-sleeve shirts
  • Snell SA2015 (or newer) helmet (NO LOANERS AVAILABLE)

Drivers operating fully caged race cars must also wear:

  • Approved racing suit
  • Racing gloves
  • Balaclava (NO LOANERS AVAILABLE)

All participants are required to sign appropriate waiver forms for both the facility and the event and must not have any physical or mental conditions that would prevent safe participation.

This event will run in rain or inclement weather unless cancelled by the event director. Refunds will not be issued. If cancelled, make-up dates will be announced.

VEHICLE ELIGIBILITY AND SAFETY

  • Open-top cars and convertibles must have a roll cage
  • Passenger seat must have identical safety equipment if instructor is present
  • Final vehicle safety approval is at the discretion of the lead tech inspector
  • Drivers must be able to remove a wheel if needed
  • Factory seatbelts must include shoulder belts
  • NO ELECTRIC CARS

TECH SHEETS AND NUMBERS

  • Tech sheets must be completed before entering the track
  • Pre-event inspection is highly recommended
  • Morning inspections may cause delays
  • Numbers may be required (magnetic preferred; polish acceptable)

GENERAL CONDUCT

  • Drivers must act respectfully at all times
  • Drivers are responsible for their guests
  • Drivers are liable for any facility damage
  • No alcohol or drugs during the event
  • Secure your valuables
  • Violations may result in expulsion

PADDOCK RULES

  • No open fires
  • No unauthorized motorized vehicles
  • No minors operating vehicles
  • No drones
  • Speed limit: 10 MPH
  • Follow all posted limits
  • Remove all trash before leaving

TRACK RULES AND ETIQUETTE

Pit Out:
Remain on entry side until up to speed before merging.

Pit In:
Checkered flag ends session. Cool down lap, enter pits safely, obey speed limits, raise fist before entering.

  • Windows must be fully open at all times
  • No novice passengers (except instructors)
  • Advanced passengers by approval only

STRICTLY PROHIBITED:

  • NO STOPPING ON TRACK
  • NO REVERSING ON TRACK OR IN PITS

Mechanical Issues:

  • Pull off track, stay in car unless fire/smoke

Off-Track Events:

  • Return to pits immediately
  • Check for leaks/debris
  • Raise fist signal
  • Repeated incidents may result in expulsion
  • NO RACING OR COMPETITION
  • Off-track cars must stop until waved back
  • No car contact; both cars must pit if contact occurs
  • Report major incidents to medical immediately

PASSING RULES

Passing is strictly controlled for safety.

Core Rules:

  • Overtaking driver is responsible for safe pass
  • Overtaken driver must remain on line
  • Passing only in designated areas

Novice rules covered in classroom.

Advanced Group:

  • Passing only on straights
  • No passing in corners or braking zones
  • Point-by required (right = over roof, left = out window)
  • Slight lift required
  • No tailgating
  • No passing outside designated zones

Failure to comply may result in penalties.

AGGRESSIVE DRIVING / POOR ATTITUDE

Will not be tolerated, including:

  • Holding up faster cars
  • Weaving or tailgating
  • Flashing lights or honking
  • Blocking or brake checking
  • Ignoring flags
  • Dangerous driving behavior