FROM STREET TO CIRCUIT
Your Track Day Starter Kit
The Essential Guide to Your First High-Performance Driving Experience
SpeedUnlocked - Global Driver Development by Coin Laundry Racing Service
Your Journey Starts Here
Whether you're a seasoned sim racer, a passionate car enthusiast, or a street driver eager to explore the limits of your vehicle safely, this kit is your essential guide to entering the thrilling world of high-performance track driving.
This Starter Kit Is For:
- First-time track drivers eager for their maiden circuit experience
- Sim racers transitioning their skills to real-world driving
- Street drivers looking to push their car's performance in a controlled environment
- Those who want to understand proper circuit preparation and safety protocols
- Individuals committed to learning and doing things the right way from the start
This Starter Kit Is NOT For:
- Experienced drivers with 20+ track days under their belt
- Competition license holders seeking advanced racecraft techniques
- Individuals interested in illegal street racing or reckless driving
This starter kit focuses on fundamentals and getting you safely on track. For advanced courses and further development, visit
Let's get you ready for the circuit.
Understanding Track Days
What Exactly is a Track Day?
A track day (HPDE - High Performance Driving Education) is your opportunity to drive your car—or a provided car—at a real racing circuit in a safe, structured environment.
What Makes It Different from Street Driving:
- Closed course (no traffic, pedestrians, police)
- Run-off areas (safer than street if you make mistakes)
- Instruction available (learn proper technique)
- Progressive groups (beginners separate from advanced)
- No speed limits (within your ability and safety rules)
What Track Days Are:
- ✓ Educational focus (driver development)
- ✓ Non-competitive (no official timing/standings)
- ✓ Safe environment (medical staff on-site)
- ✓ Community-oriented (supportive, not aggressive)
What Track Days Are NOT:
- ✗ Racing (no wheel-to-wheel competition)
- ✗ Drifting (grip driving, not sliding)
- ✗ Time trials (though lap times are often available)
- ✗ Reckless (highly structured with strict safety rules)
Common Names Worldwide:
USA, Europe, UK, Australia, Asia variations
Organizations Running Track Days:
List by region with specific organizations
Your First Day Timeline - Part 1
What to Expect: Minute-by-Minute
EARLY MORNING (Arrival & Registration)
7:00-8:00 AM - Arrive & Setup
- Get there EARLY (best paddock spots go fast)
- Unload your gear
- Set up your area (canopy, chair, tools accessible)
8:00-8:30 AM - Registration
- Sign waiver (READ IT - you're assuming risk)
- Pay entry fee (if not pre-paid)
- Receive wristband and car number
- Get assigned to run group (typically Novice/Beginner)
- Ask about instructor assignment
8:30-9:00 AM - Technical Inspection
What they check:
- Brake pad thickness
- Fluid levels (brake, oil, coolant)
- Tire condition
- Wheel bolts tight
- Battery secure
- Loose items removed
- Proper taping
Pass = tech sticker on windshield
Fail = must fix issues before track time
9:00-9:30 AM - Drivers Meeting (MANDATORY)
Never miss this. Ever.
Covered topics:
- Flag meanings (critical for safety)
- Passing rules (varies by organization)
- Track-specific hazards (oil-prone corners, bumps)
- Emergency procedures (what to do if you crash)
- Run group schedules
- Weather considerations
ASK QUESTIONS HERE. No stupid questions exist.
Your First Day Timeline - Part 2
Your First Session & Beyond
FIRST SESSION (The Most Important One)
9:30-10:00 AM - First Track Session
Your mindset should be:
- ➡️ Drive at 60-70% of what you THINK you can do
- ➡️ Focus on LEARNING the track, not lap times
- ➡️ Follow the instructor's guidance completely
- ➡️ Smooth inputs matter more than speed
- ➡️ It's OK to let faster drivers pass (they'll signal)
What will feel weird:
- Speed feels MUCH faster than street
- Corners approach quicker than expected
- Your brain will lag behind the car initially
- You'll be overwhelmed (this is normal)
What to focus on:
- Learning the correct racing line
- Proper braking points
- Vision (looking ahead, not at apex)
- Smooth steering inputs
10:00-10:30 AM - Post-Session Debrief
CRITICAL: Do this immediately, not hours later
- ➡️ Check tire pressures while HOT (write them down)
- ➡️ Check fluid levels (any leaks?)
- ➡️ Walk around car for damage
- ➡️ Review video footage (if filming)
- ➡️ Debrief with instructor (what to improve)
- ➡️ Make notes in journal (specific observations)
- ➡️ Hydrate and eat something
MIDDAY SESSIONS
10:30 AM-3:00 PM - Rotating Sessions
Typical schedule:
- 4-6 total sessions per day
- 20-30 minutes per session
- 30-60 minute breaks between
- Each run group rotates on track
Your progression through the day:
1
Session 1
Learn the track (60% pace)
2
Session 2
Refine the line (65-70% pace)
3
Session 3
Build confidence (70-75% pace)
4
Session 4
Start pushing slightly (75-80% pace)
DO NOT:
- ❌ Try to set your fastest lap in Session 1
- ❌ Ignore instructor feedback
- ❌ Skip breaks (fatigue causes mistakes)
- ❌ Drive angry if someone passes you
- ❌ Compare yourself to experienced drivers
Your First Day Timeline - Part 3
Afternoon & Wrap-Up
AFTERNOON
3:00-5:00 PM - Final Sessions & Wrap-Up
Note: Energy and focus fade in afternoon
- Track temperature is highest (affects grip)
- Mental fatigue sets in
- This is when mistakes happen
Final session approach:
- Don't push for hero lap
- Practice consistency
- Solidify what you learned
- Cool-down lap to bring brake temps down
5:00-6:00 PM - Pack Up & Depart
- Remove tape from car
- Do final fluid check
- Thank your instructor (seriously, they're volunteers)
- Clean up your paddock area
- Review the day's footage on drive home
THAT NIGHT:
- Write detailed notes while fresh in mind
- Review all video footage
- Identify 2-3 specific things to improve next time
- Book your next track day (you'll be hooked)
The 70% Rule: Your Safety Net
This is the single most important concept for your first track day:
DRIVE AT 70% OF WHAT YOU THINK YOU CAN DO.
Not 90%. Not 80%. Not "just below the limit."
70%.
Why This Matters:
Your brain's perception of speed is calibrated for street driving. At 40 mph on the street, you have time to react to:
- A car pulling out
- A pedestrian
- A red light
- A phone distraction
At 100 mph on track, reaction time collapses to a fraction of a second. But your brain doesn't KNOW this yet.
The 70% Rule gives you:
Mental processing buffer (time to think)
Physical reaction margin (time to correct)
Learning bandwidth (can focus on technique)
Safety cushion (mistakes don't become crashes)
What 70% Feels Like:
- Frustratingly slow (you'll want to go faster)
- Like you're holding everyone up (you're not)
- Boring on straights (that's fine)
- Comfortable in corners (exactly right)
What 70% Allows:
- Learning the correct line
- Smooth inputs
- Observation of faster drivers
- Building confidence gradually
- Finishing the day without incidents
The Progression:
Day 1-3:
70% (learning)
Day 4-10:
75-80% (refining)
Day 11-20:
80-85% (improving)
Day 20+:
85-90% (pushing)
You'll NEVER need 100% at track days.
Even advanced drivers leave margin.
This concept alone prevents 90% of first-day incidents.
Want the complete mental framework?
SPEEDUNLOCKED
Foundation Event Prep — SPEEDUNLOCKED
Entry-level course for beginner track day drivers overwhelmed by event prep. Delivers clear, step-by-step systems for personalized packing lists, weather-adjusted strategies, session focus plans, and instructor/mentor recommendations-so you arrive organized, calm, and ready to learn instead of stressed.
Passing Etiquette: Don't Be 'That Guy'
Passing rules vary by organization and region. ALWAYS clarify at drivers meeting.
Common Systems:
SYSTEM 1: Point-By Only (Most Common for Beginners)
Faster car approaches
Slower car gives clear point-by signal (left arm out window)
Faster car passes on indicated side only
No passing without point-by
Your responsibility as SLOWER car:
- Check mirrors regularly
- Hold your line (don't be unpredictable)
- Give clear, early point-by when safe
- Don't give point-by mid-corner
- Don't slow down to let them pass
Your responsibility as FASTER car:
- Be patient
- Don't tailgate or intimidate
- Only pass when pointed by
- Give plenty of room
- Wave "thanks" after pass
SYSTEM 2: Passing Zones Only
Passing allowed only in designated straights
May or may not require point-by
Clearly marked zones at track
SYSTEM 3: Open Passing (Advanced Groups Only)
Passing anywhere with care
Still requires awareness and respect
SYSTEM 4: Regional Variations
- Europe: Often mirrors required, hand signals standard
- UK: Some tracks require specific passing zones
- Asia: Varies significantly by track and organization
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
❌ Passing without point-by (if required)
❌ Passing under yellow flag (serious safety violation)
❌ Aggressive driving to "keep position"
❌ Not giving point-by when clearly slower
❌ Slowing down dramatically to give point-by
Pro Tip:
If someone is catching you every lap, give early point-by and let them go. You'll learn more watching them disappear than defending position.
Cost Breakdown
What Does a Track Day Actually Cost?
ENTRY FEE: $200-$800 USD / €180-€700 / £160-£600
Varies by:
- Region (Europe generally more expensive)
- Track prestige (Spa, Nurburgring, Laguna Seca cost more)
- Organization (club vs. commercial)
- Session length/number
Typical ranges:
- USA: $300-$600
- Europe: $400-$800
- UK: $300-$600
- Australia: $350-$700
- Asia: $250-$600
CONSUMABLES PER EVENT: $50-$300
- Fuel: $40-$100 (premium required)
- Brake wear: $0-$150 (pads last 3-5 events typically)
- Tire wear: $0 (street tires OK initially)
- Oil: $0 (change every 3-4 events)
ONE-TIME GEAR: $300-$1,000
- Helmet: $250-$700 (Snell SA or FIA)
- Driving shoes: $50-$200
- Gloves: $30-$100 (optional for most)
- GoPro camera: $200-$400 (optional)
TYPICAL FIRST EVENT TOTAL:
- Budget: $600-$1,200
- Mid-range: $900-$1,800
- Premium: $1,500-$2,500
REPEAT EVENTS:
$350-$900 (entry + consumables only)
Join car club (PCA, BMW CCA) for member discounts
Buy used helmet (if recently certified, no damage)
Share paddock spot (split canopy/tools)
Volunteer to work events (earn free entries)
Book early bird pricing
Off-season events (cheaper, fewer people)
Alternative: Arrive & Drive Programs
Instead of using your own car:
- Car provided and prepped
- Insurance included
- Instruction included
- No wear/tear on personal vehicle
- Typically $1,500-$3,000+ per day
Example: CLRS Elite TCR Program
- Factory Audi RS3 LMS race car
- Professional support team
- Sebring International Raceway
- $11,500 per experience
- CLRacingService.com
After Your First Track Day: What's Next?
You'll finish your first day either:
A) Completely hooked (90% of people)
B) Satisfied but done (10% - totally fine)
If You're Hooked, Here's Your Path:
PHASE 1: Foundation (Days 1-10)
Focus: Learn tracks, build confidence, correct basics
Challenges: Overwhelming information, inconsistency
Resources:
- → SpeedUnlocked Event Prep Track Day Guideline
- → Sim Bridge Bootcamp (if transitioning from sim)
- → Local instructors and track day communities
PHASE 2: Development (Days 11-25)
Focus: Technique refinement, lap time improvement
Challenges: Bad habits forming, chasing lap times too early
Resources:
- → SpeedUnlocked Foundation courses
- → Video analysis tools
- → Data logging (when ready)
PHASE 3: Plateau (Days 20-50)
Focus: Breaking through performance ceiling
Challenges: Lap times stall, frustration sets in
THIS IS THE HARDEST PHASE.
Resources:
- → SpeedUnlocked Plateau Buster Blueprint
- → Professional coaching
- → Detailed telemetry analysis
PHASE 4: Precision (Days 50+)
Focus: Consistency at limit, competition prep
Challenges: Diminishing returns, high costs
Resources:
- → SpeedUnlocked Precision Driver courses
- → Professional racing programs
- → Arrive & drive experiences (CLRS)
The Reality:
- Most drivers stop at 5-15 track days (casual enjoyment)
- Serious drivers accumulate 20-50+ days (committed hobby)
- Competitive drivers: 50-100+ days before racing
There's No Wrong Answer:
Whether you do 1 track day or 100, you've experienced something 99% of car enthusiasts never will.
Your Pre-Event Checklist
ONE WEEK BEFORE:
- Confirm registration and payment
- Review track map and watch onboard videos
- Check weather forecast
- Book hotel if traveling (get close to track)
- Arrange time off work
- Notify family/friends
- Vehicle mechanical inspection:
- Brake pads (30%+ life minimum)
- Brake fluid (flush if over 1 year old)
- All other fluids checked/topped
- Tire inspection (tread, sidewalls, age)
- Suspension bushings checked
- Wheel bearings checked
- Battery secure and charged
- Gear check:
- Helmet (no cracks, current certification)
- Driving clothes (long pants, long sleeves)
- Shoes (thin sole preferred)
- Sunglasses
- Camera batteries charged
- Lap timer app installed
TWO DAYS BEFORE:
- Fresh oil change (if due)
- Fill gas tank (premium fuel)
- Wash car (helps spot leaks/damage)
- Pack cooler with ice and drinks
- Charge all electronics
- Print tech inspection form (if required)
- Print waiver (if pre-signing available)
NIGHT BEFORE:
- Load car with all gear
- Set 2-3 alarms (don't be late!)
- Hydrate heavily (start now, not morning-of)
- Get 7-8 hours sleep
- Prep breakfast for quick morning
- Route to track loaded in GPS
- Full tank of gas (don't rely on track-side stations)
MORNING OF:
- Eat substantial breakfast
- Drink water (not just coffee)
- Double-check you have:
- Helmet
- Driver's license
- Registration
- Wallet (cash for emergencies)
- Leave 30 min earlier than GPS says (buffer time)
Clean, printable checklist format
Continue Your Journey
From Starter Kit to Mastery
This starter kit covers the fundamentals.
Real progression requires structured training, deliberate practice, and expert guidance.
SPEEDUNLOCKED COURSES:
1
For First-Timers
Event Prep Track Day Guideline - $97
- Complete system for stress-free track days
- Includes 12 printable checklists
Sim Bridge Bootcamp - $127
- For sim racers transitioning to real circuits
- Sensory calibration exercises
- Confidence-building framework
2
For Developing Drivers (10-20 Days)
Off-Track Skill Sharpener (Coming Soon)
- Maintain skills between events
- Home-based practice drills
- Sim training protocols
3
For Plateau Drivers (20+ Days, Stuck)
Plateau Buster Blueprint - $297
- Break through your performance ceiling
- 18-question diagnostic assessment
- 9 proven drills for common barriers
Hidden Seconds Hunter (Coming Soon)
- Advanced lap optimization
- Trade-offs for maximum speed
4
For Precision Drivers (Competition Prep)
Data Decoder Academy (Coming Soon)
- Professional telemetry analysis
- Comparative data interpretation
Integrated Wearable Biofeedback (Coming Soon)
- Heart rate and HRV optimization
- Mental state management
PREMIUM EXPERIENCE:
- CLRS Elite Driver Program
- Factory Audi RS3 LMS TCR race cars
- White-glove concierge service
- Sebring International Raceway
- Only 10 drivers accepted annually
- Take assessment: CLRacingService.com
FREE RESOURCES:
- SpeedUnlocked Blog
- In-depth articles
- Track-specific guides
- Driver development insights
- Instagram: @CoinLaundryRacingService
- Behind-the-scenes TCR content
- Quick tips and techniques
- Community highlights
- Speed Unlocked Members free sign up
- Course updates and early access
- Exclusive discounts
- Team gear discounts
SPECIAL OFFER:
Use code STARTERKIT15 for 15% off your first SpeedUnlocked course
Questions?
Website: SpeedUnlocked.com
Who We Are
SpeedUnlocked is the global driver development division of Coin Laundry Racing Service (CLRS).
We operate factory-built Audi RS3 LMS TCR race cars at Sebring International Raceway, providing elite arrive-and-drive experiences for serious drivers transitioning from track days to professional motorsport environments.
Our Background:
Our courses are built from real-world experience:
- Operating professional race machinery
- Analyzing thousands of laps of telemetry data
- Understanding what actually works vs. theory
- Working with drivers from many skill levels
This isn't generic advice.
This is what works at Sebring, Spa, Suzuka, and every circuit in between.
Our Philosophy:
1
FUNDAMENTALS BEFORE SPEED
Bad habits scale faster than good ones. We fix foundations before chasing lap time.
2
PROGRESSION OVERLOAD
Advanced concepts only work when earlier skills are consistent.
3
NEUROSCIENCE-INFORMED TRAINING
We teach how drivers actually learn, not how we wish they learned.
4
TELEMETRY-SUPPORTED DECISIONS
Data removes guesswork. We show you what the numbers actually mean.
5
ENGINEERING-BASED HABITS
Professional racing habits work at any level. We teach them from day one.
Facilities:
- Sebring International Raceway (primary)
- The Motor Enclave Tampa (TME)
- Additional Florida venues
- Global driver development network
Recognition:
- Magneto Racing Magazine Partner
- Official Ravenol USA Partner
- Official Demon Tweeks Partner
Connect With Us:
- SU Website: SpeedUnlocked.com
- CLRS Website: CLRacingService.com
- Instagram: @CoinLaundryRacingService
Sebring, Florida
Global Driver Development
FROM STREET TO CIRCUIT
The Journey Starts Here
Website: SpeedUnlocked.com
Links to SpeedUnlocked.com
Special Offer: Use code:
STARTERKIT15 for 15% off your first courseSee you at the circuit.
Copyright: ©2026 SpeedUnlocked
A Division of Coin Laundry Racing Service
Content for individual use only.
A Division of Coin Laundry Racing Service
Content for individual use only.