What Is Driver’s Education (DE)?
The mission and purpose of the Porsche Club of America's Driver's Education Program is to provide a safe, structured, and controlled teaching and learning environment. The PCA DE Program is designed so that participants can improve their driving abilities and acquire a better understanding of vehicle dynamics and driving safety. Participants will experience first-hand the capabilities of high-performance automobiles in a controlled, closed-course environment and acquire skills that will enhance safer vehicle operation in all driving situations.
Coastal Empire PCA runs DE events from April to December at Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, GA. In 2024, our Roebling Road events are on April 13-14, September 7-8, and December 7-8.
One giant word of caution - this adventure can become very addictive.
Our instructors will teach you to drive your Porsche the way Stuttgart designed it to be driven. PCA DE schools are run in a safe and controlled environment on a closed course. Like any new sport your instructor will guide you into this exciting world of high-performance driving. These weekends are great sources of stories for all your friends and family. You will have dreams about various turns and wake up with memories of your instructor saying “BRAKE” or “DON'T LIFT”. These schools are truly the only safe way to learn the engineering dynamics that went into the development of this famous racing marque.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I Eligible?
If you are over 18 years of age and have a current and valid driver’s license then, yes, you are eligible. Porsche Club of America (PCA) membership is preferred but not required. You should have a desire to experience and learn how to safely handle yourself and your car on track.
What Do I Need to Do to My Car Before I Bring It To The Track?
If you are a beginner attending your first few DE weekends, the answer is nothing. Your car must be in good working order which means ensuring that all factory systems are fully functional, tires have adequate tread, brake pads are sufficient and proper maintenance has been performed. You will receive a packet containing information and the appropriate forms once you have been accepted into the event. READ IT ALL!! This packet contains the Technical Inspection Form that will need to be completed prior to attending the event. This Tech Inspection must be completed by an authorized inspector. Most Porsche dealerships and independent shops are familiar with our events and performing a Tech Inspection.
What Special Equipment Do I Need?
All drivers must wear a helmet with a Snell rating of 2015 or newer. Rubber soled fully enclosed shoes are mandatory. Roebling Road Raceway allows short pants and t-shirts. Cotton and other non-flammable materials are highly recommended.
Is This a Competitive Event?
NO!! We cannot over-emphasise this point. This is a high-speed driving EDUCATION event. There will be no official timing of the event. The purpose of these events is to teach you how to properly handle your car at speed and to teach you the proper line around the track. This is not racing in any way, shape, form, or fashion. Anyone attempting to race will be removed from the event and barred from future DE events. We control these actions by limiting the passing to designated areas and by requiring the slower car to signal the overtaking car.
Is My Car Insurance Valid on The Track?
The short answer is probably not, even though this is a non-competitive event with no timing and no prizes. You would be well advised to read the Exclusions page of your policy to confirm that there is not language that would exclude DE events. It is possible to get insurance specifically for DE events, and PCA has arranged coverage through Lockton Affinity. Please see http://pcahpdeins.locktonaffinity.com/Default.aspx for more information.
How do I register or get more information about events?
Coastal Empire PCA uses www.clubregistration.net for event registration. Please go to their website to sign up for our events and further information.
If you have any questions about Driver’s Education, contact our DE Chair Bill Abernethy, wmd.abernethy@gmail.com or call 508-985-8715 or our Chief Driving Instructor Steve Harrington, at sgharrington@gmail.com or 757-390-6459.
Does Coastal Empire attend events at other racetracks?
Yes. You will often find us at Sebring, Road Atlanta, Carolina Motorsports Park, VIR, Barber Motorsport Park or Daytona.
Are there any photos from recent events?
Glad you asked! Take a look at the photos below.
