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We're looking forward to seeing you at Reese's Track Day on Thursday July 31, 2025.

Key Points:

Please review the information below in preparation for the day!

General Event Information

Our program is called HPDE for a reason - we do not host races, and events are not timed. We provide High Performance Driver's Education which means we are focused on learning, safety and fun.

  • Drivers are grouped according to his or her individual driving experience level. 
  • Passing is only permitted with point-by signals in designated areas.
  • Drivers use their own vehicle to drive on track; rental vehicles are not available.

HPDE is for everyone - performance driving or race experience is not required! This is a great opportunity to learn the dynamics of your car; which can prove useful on the street or on the track. Most importantly, we promise you will have a ton of fun! Instructors are available for those that are just beginning.

Register your Spectators & Passengers - do this ASAP!

Register your spectators or passengers here.

If a spectator wants to do any ride-alongs, they will need to sign the AutoInterests waiver (different from the track's waiver) and get a wristband.  Passenger wristbands may be picked up at Hospitality - look for the Hospitality sign.

Attention! Anyone planning to enter the Mid-Ohio premises MUST:

This includes EVERYONE - drivers, crew, spectators, ride-alongs, etc.! 
Any person who wishes to enter the gate must both sign the Mid-Ohio waiver AND have an AutoInterests ticket. 
If you or your guests do not do both, they will be turned away at the gate.


Rules on Passengers:

One passenger is permitted in the front of each vehicle with certain restrictions:

First Timers and Novice drivers may not have passengers, with the exception of instructors.  Novices may only have a passenger if approved. Driver seat & restraint must match the passenger seat & restraint (if mismatched, passengers will not be permitted - this includes instructors)

Intermediate and Advanced drivers may have passengers as long as the passenger has the same safety equipment as the driver - helmet, equal seats & restraints (both either standard seat belts or harnesses but not mis-matched) and HANS device if applicable.

Bringing your own helmet? Make sure it qualifies!

Must be SA2015 or newer.  No DOT or M helmets.

SA2015 or newer is REQUIRED.

Absolutely no DOT-only or M-only rated helmets.  

If your helmet is not SA2015 or SA2020, you will not be permitted to go on track.

Open face or full face is your choice - both are acceptable as long as it is SA2015 or newer.

Summit Racing Equipment in Tallmadge, Ohio has a large selection of helmets to choose from if you are looking to purchase one:
Here is a list of SA2015 and SA2020 helmets they offer.

A note to those with FIA standard helmets: 

FIA 8858 are acceptable and FIA 8860 are acceptable until (if) they expire:

  • FIA 8860-2018 and 8860-2018-ABP - Currently no expiry date
  • FIA 8860-2010 - Expires December 31, 2028
  • FIA 8860-2004 - NOT ACCEPTED - Expired December 31, 2020
  • FIA 8859-2015 (with SA2015) - Currently no expiry date
  • FIA 8858-2010 (with SA2010) - NOT ACCEPTED - Expired December 31, 2023

Why the SA rating?

As horsepower ratings on cars go up and tracks are setup to allow more speed it becomes important to upgrade safety equipment.  Helmets MUST be SA2010 or newer rated to provide appropriate protection for drivers.  There are NO EXCEPTIONS to this.

The SA standard better protects you in the case of an accident within a vehicle, as they were specifically designed for automotive use.

The following information notes the differences between helmet types (found on the Snell Foundation's FAQ page):

The SA standard was designed for competitive auto racing while the M standard was for motorcycling and other motorsports. The K standard was released to accommodate helmets used in karting. There are three major differences between them:

  1. The SA standard requires flammability test while the M and K standards do not.
  2. The SA and K standards allow for a narrower visual field than the M standard (Some SA and K certified helmets may not be street legal).
  3. The SA and K standards include a rollbar multi-impact test while the M standard does not.

Don't have a helmet? Reserve a rental.

ATTENTION! Rental Helmets are almost completely reserved at this point!

Summit Racing Equipment in Tallmadge, Ohio has a large selection of helmets to choose from if you are looking to purchase one:
Here is a list of SA2015 and SA2020 helmets they offer.


Helmet rental is included with your registration fee for this event.

We have a limited supply of helmets available to rent. Rentals are first come, first serve.  

Reserve your helmet at time of registration or separately here.


General Sizing Guide:

Helmets should fit as tightly as possible without causing discomfort. Measure head circumference around the largest part of the head approximately one inch above the eyebrows and just above the ears. Measure several times and use the largest measurement.

NOTE: This guide is a general reference. Depending on the brand and model, sizing can differ slightly.

InchesCMHelmet Size
21 1/2 - 22 1/855 - 56Small
22 3/8 - 22 7/857 - 58Medium
23 1/8 - 23 3/459 - 60Large
24 - 24 1/261 - 62X-Large
24 3/4 - 25 1/463 - 64XX-Large

Sanitization Procedures:

  • All rental helmets will run for a full heat and ozone cycle on sterilizing machines after every use.

  • We also use a sanitizing spray on our helmets; this is a two-step process comprised of two different sprays in addition to cycling on helmet sterilizers.

  • Headsocks are mandatory and will be used only once & discarded.

BEFORE THE EVENT: Packing List / What to Bring

REQUIRED:

  • License or other form of ID
  • Helmet (if bringing your own)
  • Car (that meets vehicle requirements)
  • Long pants (100% cotton recommended)
  • Close toed, lace up shoes

You will NOT be permitted to go on track in shorts or open shoes!


OPTIONAL

Here are some other useful items to consider bringing:

  • Large plastic container or bin to store all loose items from your car (floor mats, etc.)
  • Water or sports drinks
  • Food and/or snacks
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Chapstick and/or eye drops (because you drive with the windows down!)
  • Extra Fuel (there are pumps at some of the tracks but the prices are higher, and there is not always a gas station nearby)
  • Consumables your car may need – fluids, brake pads, etc.
  • Tools
  • Rain gear
  • Lawn chairs
  • Canopy/umbrella (stakes/weights are required!)

BEFORE THE EVENT: Review the New Driver Guide & Flags

ALL First Timers, Novice & Novice Solo drivers:

Please review the DRIVER GUIDE & FLAGS - 2021 AI Novice Guide.pdf

A copy of this will be included in your driver packet which you will receive at tech inspection.

BEFORE THE EVENT: Complete your pre-check-in!

Completing your pre-check-in online BEFORE the event will make your morning go even quicker!

COMPLETE YOUR PRE-CHECK-IN NOW!

  1. Log into your account at autointerests.com
  2. Click on "My Account", then go to the "My Events" tab
  3. Click on "View & Manage" for this event
  4. Click on START to begin pre-check-in
  5. Sign the WAIVER, click save
  6. Sign the TECH FORM, click save
  7. Upload a photo of your driver's license or other photo ID
  8. Your pre-check-in status will display "Completed" when you're done.
  9. NOTE: you must still go through tech inspection at the event!
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    GETTING THERE: Directions to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course

    ADDRESS:

    Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
    7721 Steam Corners Rd.
    Lexington, OH 44904


    DIRECTIONS:

    From Cleveland, Ohio:

    Take I-71 south to U.S. 30. Go west on U.S. 30 to Fourth St./Crestline exit. Turn left at end of exit ramp and proceed to stop light. At stop light turn right and then veer right onto St. Rt. 314. Go approximately 7 miles and turn left on Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is one mile on the left. Approx. Travel Time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

    Take I-71 S. Take exit 165 for OH-97 toward Lexington/Bellville. Turn right at OH-97/OH 97 W. Turn left at E Main St/ US-42 and continue to follow E. Main St. Turn left at Lexington Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is 2 miles on the right. Approx. Travel Time: 1 hour, 36 minutes.


    From Columbus, Ohio:

    Take I-71 north to St.Rt. 95 east. Turn right off the ramp and follow St.Rt. 95 for 2 miles and turn left (north) on St.Rt. 314 for 15 miles. Turn right on Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is one mile on the left. Approx. Travel Time: 1 hour

    Take 1-71 N towards Cleveland. Take exit 165 for OH-97 toward Lexington/Bellville. Turn left at OH-97/OH 97 W. Turn left at E Main St/US-42 and continue to follow E. Main St. Turn left at Lexington Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is two miles on the right. Approx. Travel Time: 1 hour


    From Akron/Canton, Ohio:

    Take U.S. 30 west to Fourth St./Crestline exit. Turn left at end of exit ramp and proceed to stop light. At stop light turn right and then veer right onto St. Rt. 314. Go approximately 7 miles and turn left on Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is one mile on the left. Approx. Travel Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes


    From Fort Wayne, Indiana:

    Take U.S. 30 east to Fourth St./Crestline exit. Turn right at end of exit ramp and proceed to stop light. At stop light turn right and then veer right onto St. Rt. 314. Go approximately 7 miles and turn left on Steam Corners Rd. Mid-Ohio is one mile on the left. Approx. Travel Time: 3 hours


    From Detroit/Toledo, Ohio:

    Take I-75 South to Route 15 E/US-68 S toward US-23/Columbus/Kenton. Continue on US-23 S. Slight right at US-30 E (signs for Bucyrus/Mansfield/US-30 E). Stay on Route 30 E to Fourth St./Crestline exit. Turn right at end of exit ramp and proceed to stop light. At stop light turn right and then veer right onto State Route 314. Go approximately seven miles and turn left on Steam Corners Road. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course is one mile on the left. Approx. Travel Time: 2 ½ - 3 hours.


    Construction Updates for Your Travels to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and The Mid-Ohio School: To keep apprised of pending traffic delays/road construction as you travel to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, please visit ohgo.com in advance of your travels.

    GETTING THERE: Where to park and what to do once you arrive at the track

    PADDOCK LAYOUT AND ARRIVAL MAP:

    Mid-Ohio enter at gate 3

    Mid-Ohio lower paddock

    When you arrive at the event:

    1. Enter the facility and drive to the paddock area.
    2. Choose a spot to park - anywhere is fine, so long as it is not in front of a garage reserved by someone else
    3. Empty vehicle of ALL loose items! (everything - floor mats, car seats, tools, luggage, etc.)
    4. Make sure you keep your driver license and helmet in the vehicle (if renting a helmet, you will receive it at tech)
    5. Proceed to the tech line (you will check-in AT tech inspection)
    6. A tech inspector will ask you to pop the hood & trunk, look in and around the vehicle, and will inspect your helmet
    7. Next, pull forward to our tech administrators - they will ask to see your driver license and will complete your driver check-in
    8. The tech administrator will issue your driver packet which will contain the schedule, run group decal, driver wristband, and any other info you will need for the day
    9. DECALS: small tech decals go on the top corner of the windshield (driver's side)
    10. WRISTBAND: driver wristband goes on your LEFT wrist
    11. NUMBERS: one on each side of the car (doors or rear windows)
    12. After tech, head to the Driver Meeting (check your schedule for time and location)

    GETTING THERE: Early Entry

    Early entry/trailer drop off is available no earlier than 6:00pm the night before our event date.

    Please refer to your pre-event emails for specific entry times, as these may vary depending on event date, and sometimes we do not receive the exact entry time from the track until the week of the event.

    FYI: Schedule

    View Reese's Track Day Schedule

    A copy of the day's schedule will be included in your driver packet you receive at tech inspection.

    Please note: the LIVE SCHEDULE and YOUR SCHEDULE is the best place to view while at the event. Both of those get updated in real time if any changes are needed. 


    View the LIVE SCHEDULE!

    • The above link is only valid on the day of the event.

    • The live schedule is always displayed on a screen at Hospitality during events.


    View your PERSONALIZED SCHEDULE!

    Log in and click on "My Account" -> "My Events" -> "View & Manage".

     

    FYI: Track Map

    You will receive a paper copy in your driver packet, but here is the track map:

     

    Mid-Ohio Track Map

    REVIEW: Vehicle Requirements & Preparation Guidelines

    Please review the Vehicle FAQ's and Guidelines below.
    If you have any questions about your vehicle or safety equipment meeting requirements, email events@autointerests.com PRIOR to registering for an event!

    DISCLAIMER:

    First and foremost it is important to make it clear that it is solely the participant's responsibility to adequately prepare their vehicle for safe operation.  The vehicle prep guidelines we prepare are just that, they are not intended to be comprehensive or any type of certification or guarantee of safe performance.  

    It is important to note that the AutoInterests tech inspection at an event will serve only as a basic "spot check" of these items: helmet, seat belts/harnesses, roll protection (if applicable), no loose items inside the vehicle, battery is secure, no obvious leaks or loose body panels, and proper attire.  Please review the sections below for more detailed information on requirements.


    VEHICLE PREPARATION GUIDELINES:

    Many drivers are very handy and capable of handling track preparation in their own garage and others prefer to leave the hands-on work to professionals.  There are often many performance oriented dealerships selling performance lines of production vehicles that are quite experienced at working with drivers for track event preparation.  Independent performance and tuning shops can be of assistance as well.

    It is up to each individual driver to determine the appropriate qualified person to prepare their vehicle or perform any changes or upgrades for use on the street or on the track.

    The amount and type of vehicle preparation required can vary dramatically per vehicle and per driver.  It is possible for participants to be both very harsh and very easy on their vehicles during a road course event.  Drivers can push the limits of their skill and vehicle as much or as little as they are comfortable with.

    Varying driving techniques will cause different amounts and areas of wear on a vehicle.  Harsh, erratic driving can be harder on ball joints, suspension components and bushings while smoother drivers might simply experience wear on brakes, tires or engine components.

    A key theme to vehicle preparation is good overall general maintenance such as fresh fluids, checking belts, good condition spark plugs/wires, tires, brakes and any type of wear items.  These basics are often sufficient for novice drivers or those that are conservative road course drivers.

    As mentioned in our disclaimer, tech inspection is not all-inclusive and should not be considered any type of certification or guarantee of safe operation.  All drivers are required to sign our tech sheet/waiver acknowledging their sole responsibility for the preparation of his or her vehicle.


    Read all rules and make sure your vehicle is qualified and that you have adequate safety equipment. If you have any questions about your vehicle or safety equipment meeting requirements, email events@autointerests.com PRIOR to registering for an event!

     

    FAQ: Are trucks or SUVs permitted?

    Trucks and SUVs are typically NOT permitted on track at our events.

    SPECIAL APPROVAL IS REQUIRED FOR TRUCKS AND SUVs

    For approval, email events@autointerests.com and include the following information:

    1. Your name
    2. Your on-track driving experience
    3. How much of your on-track experience was done using this vehicle
    4. Your driver class: first timer, novice, intermediate, or advanced
    5. Vehicle description
    6. Vehicle modifications (if applicable)
    7. Vehicle photo(s)

    FAQ: Are convertibles permitted?

    There is not a simple yes or no answer to this question. It really depends on your vehicle and its safety equipment. 

    Factory rollover protection (including pop-up or active) is acceptable in Acclimation, First-Time, Novice & Intermediate run groups.  Aftermarket roll bars are HIGHLY recommended for the Advanced group.

    Hard tops & “style bars” DO NOT count as structural roll protection!

    Convertibles without roll protection are NOT permitted. 

    Please note, not all convertibles are equipped with factory roll protection.  The driver has the burden of proof that their vehicle/model has sufficient roll protection. 

    If you are unsure of your specific vehicle’s roll protection, we suggest taking a look in the owner’s manual, checking forums, or contacting the manufacturer directly.  We DO NOT maintain a comprehensive list of approved/unapproved convertibles, and our tech inspectors on-site have the final say in your vehicle's approval to go on track.

    ACCLIMATION / FIRST-TIME / NOVICE DRIVERS please note: even though your vehicle may be permitted to go on track, in some cases your instructor will choose NOT to ride with you due to his/her own safety concerns. If this is the case, you will be instructed through other means such as classroom, lead/follow, etc.

    Broomstick Test - We do not actively enforce the broomstick test, however, it is in your best interest that you can pass this simple test!  While sitting in the driver’s seat with your helmet on, setting a broomstick or similar device atop the windshield frame and roll bar, your helmet must have clearance under the broomstick.

    Not sure?

    If you are unsure of your specific vehicle’s roll protection, we suggest taking a look in the owner’s manual, checking forums, or contacting the manufacturer directly.  We DO NOT maintain a comprehensive list of approved/unapproved convertibles, and our tech inspectors on-site have the final say in your vehicle's approval to go on track, however here are some examples:

    The following cars are known to have factory rollover protection and are approved to run:

    Audi TT, A4, S4, A5, S5 & R8
    Aston Martin 1998-present
    Bentley Continental
    BMW Z4 & Z3, 3 series, 6 series, M series 1998-present
    Bugatti Veyron
    Dodge Viper SRT-10 2004-present
    Ferrari 360, 430 & California
    Fiat 124 Spider (2016 to present)
    Jaguar 1998-present
    Honda S2000 & NSX
    Lamborghini Gallardo, Murcielago, Diablo, LP560, LP640 roadsters, Performante
    Mazda Miata 2006‐present
    Mercedes S, SLK and CLK Convertible
    Mini & S
    Nissan 350/370Z
    Porsche - all convertibles 996/986 and later
    Volkswagen Eos & Beetle

    The following cars do NOT have factory roll over protection and would be required to install aftermarket roll bars:

    BMW Z3 1996-97 without factory roll over hoops (1998 and newer are approved)
    Camaro Convertible, all models
    Corvette Convertible, all models
    Dodge Viper RT Convertible 1992-2003 (SRT 2004 and newer are approved)
    Firebird Convertible
    Mazda Miata 1990‐2005 (2006 and newer are approved)
    Mustang/Shelby Convertibles, all models
    Lexus SC 430 Convertible
    Porsche - all convertibles pre-996/986 generation
    Pontiac Solstice & GXP
    Saturn Sky
    Toyota Solaris

    FAQ: Does my auto insurance policy protect my car during an HPDE event?

    We are not responsible for you or your vehicle.  Your auto insurance coverage at HPDE events can vary widely between different carriers.  Some insurance carriers provide zero coverage whatsoever at any "race track facility".  Some will provide coverage when participating in non-competitive educational events such as ours in accordance with your normal "street" policy.  Some provide coverage for events at race tracks only with a rider or additional charge.

    It is your responsibility to check with your individual agent or insurance company in advance of participating in any event to be sure you are satisfied with the level of coverage you will have while participating.

    AutoInterests is partnered with Lockton Affinity for HPDE Insurance coverage. If you are at all concerned about your level of insurance coverage at the track we strongly suggest you consider purchasing a policy that guarantees your coverage.

    Learn more here about HPDE coverage through Lockton Affinity

    FAQ: Does my vehicle need to have a passenger seat?

    First-Time & Novice drivers must have a passenger seat in order for their instructor to ride with them. In addition, the driver seat & restraint must match the passenger seat & restraint.

    Passenger seats are not required for Intermediate & Advanced drivers.

    FYI: Tech Inspection Process

    Drivers are required to go through tech inspection the morning of the event.  
    It is important to note that the AutoInterests tech inspection at an event will serve only as a basic "spot check" of these items:

    HELMET

    • All participants must wear a helmet
    • Helmet must be SA2015 or newer
    • No M-only or DOT-only ratings
    • You are required to select and use an appropriate helmet that fits you correctly
    • Tech Inspection will check that your helmet carries the SA2010+ rating, they will not check for fitment

    SEAT BELTS/HARNESSES

    • 3-point seat belts (factory) or multi-point harnesses are required for all drivers and passengers
    • Lap belts are not acceptable and will NOT pass tech inspection
    • Driver seat & restraint matches the passenger seat & restraint (if mismatched, passengers will not be permitted - this includes instructors for First-Timers & Novices)
    • Harnesses must be properly mounted in accordance to the harness manufacturer's instructions.
    • Racing seats must be properly secured with no movement.

    CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES & ROLL PROTECTION

    • See "Are convertibles permitted?" section above.

    OTHER

    • Vehicle number (assigned/given at tech)
    • Vehicle has been emptied of any loose items
    • Battery is securely tied down
    • No obvious fluid leaks or loose body panels
    • Clothing: 100% cotton shirt, long pants (cotton recommended), close-toe lace up shoes
    • LONG PANTS AND CLOSE-TOE SHOES ARE REQUIRED!

    As mentioned in our disclaimer this inspection is not all-inclusive and should not be considered any type of certification or guarantee of safe operation.  All drivers are required to sign our tech sheet/waiver form acknowledging their sole responsibility for the preparation of his or her vehicle.

    If you have any questions about your vehicle or safety equipment meeting requirements, email events@autointerests.com PRIOR to registering for an event!

    FYI: Track Damage & 3-Strike Policy

    Track Damage

    Drivers are solely responsible for any track damage they cause – this includes damage to any barriers and/or surfaces, oil dry used to clean up fluid leaks/spills, fire extinguishers, etc. 

    Drivers will be billed for such damages and/or consumables. Payment must be made at the time an invoice is received.

    The costs are typically billed by the race track venue (or their third party service provider) to AutoInterests - these are not "marked up" in any way and drivers are only responsible for actual costs incurred.

    3-Strike Policy

    We employ a 3-strike policy at our driving events.  Any of the following violations will result in a strike.  Penalties for each strike are outlined below.

    Violations:

    • Illegal start, not waiting for starter point
    • 2 wheels off, repeatedly
    • Failure to come in following 2 wheels off (to check car)
    • Spin or 4 wheels off
    • Failure to observe flags
    • Drifting
    • Exiting car on track (unless on fire)
    • Passing zone violations
    • Passing without a point-by
    • Failure to use pit signal
    • Too fast in the hot pits
    • Speeding in the paddock
    • We reserve the right to declare reckless driving

    Penalties:

    • Strike 1 – a warning will be issued
    • Strike 2 – you will sit out the next session
    • Strike 3 – you will leave the facility and receive no refund
    • Avoidable contact with another car is an instant removal from event.