A list of the best race-driving schools in the world at the moment

A list of the best race-driving schools in the world at the moment

Bertha Wanjiku
updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:19 PM

Auto racing has existed since motor cars were invented in the 19th century. Vehicle enthusiasts love to test the speed limits of their cars, often showcasing their skills in competitions. To be safe, drivers should attend racing schools that equip them with the necessary physical and psychological skills for high-speed navigation. This article highlights the best-rated schools.

A list of the best race-driving schools in the world at the moment
Driver walking away from Formula One race car. Photo by Jon Feingersh.
Source: Getty Images

Despite the apparent thrill of speeding, the risks involved are high, some being life-threatening. Racing cars are often modified to adapt to high speeds, so operators must have the necessary skills and knowledge to steer them. The best race-driving schools have curriculums designed to help learners master car control.

Race driving schools

These institutions usually train learners in racetracks, where they acquire the necessary skills in turning, braking, throttle application and mental tenacity. Due to the high-performance capabilities of modern racing cars, drivers require high levels of fitness, focus, and concentration under high pressure.

The best race-driving schools

The best schools are in the USA and Europe, as the sport is more prevalent in these regions. Motorists can choose from multiple tracks for different sporting categories across major cities. There are also off-road and winter navigation courses. The following are some of the best schools.

race-driving schools
Luxury race cars on a track in a NASCAR competition. Photo by Jon Feingersh.
Source: Getty Images

Aston Martin Driving Experience

This institution is located in Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK. It provides a perfect location for drivers to develop and sharpen their skills in a challenging but safe environment. Courses cost $2,128, and the school provides luxury brand cars for training.

Audi Driving Experience

For $1,995, this center offers the opportunity to experience technologically advanced models of the German brand, like Audi R, RS and S models, on one of America's most challenging racing circuits, Sonoma Raceway in California.

Richard Petty Driving Experience

With various speedways and circuits throughout America, this school offers an excellent opportunity for those curious about NASCAR racing. NASCAR champ Richard Petty created it and educated drivers and navigators. Courses cost between $449 and $549, depending on the track and complexity.

race-driving
Shane van Gisbergen poses in the Red Bull Ampol Holden Commodore ZB during the 2022 Supercars Championship Season at Adelaide Parklands Circuit on 4 December 2022 in Australia. Photo by Daniel Kalisz.
Source: Getty Images

Buck Baker's Seat Time Racing School

This centre was founded in 1980 by 2X NASCAR champion Buck Baker. Alums include Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, and Ryan Newman, all competitive drivers. They also provide vehicles that have been in racing series like the Sprint Cup and Xfinity.

Driving Academy at the Nurburgring

Based in Neuburg, Germany, this institution is famous for its wide variety of coaching vehicle models like BMW, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Suzuki. Graduates from Nurburgring are certified and get involved in flagship global championships. One lap on the track costs between $20 and $30, depending on the day of the week.

Bridgestone Winter Driving School

This place offers opportunities for learners who wish to improve their winter driving and those who want to master high-performance driving. The latter option is popular with professional racers. Based in Colorado, they have great circuits for winter driving, and their cars are fitted with Bridgestone tires for extra reliability.

racing school
A view of the Audi driving experience is captured during the Audi Hahnenkamm race weekend on 22 January 2016 in Kitzbuehel, Austria. Photo by Gisela Schober.
Source: Getty Images

Bondurant racing school

Founded in 1968 by former Formula One driver Bob Bondurant, this school specializes in extreme conditions in the Arizona desert. Another thing that differentiates it from most places is its customized classes for ladies and teens. Their prices range from $1,225 to $4,299, depending on the program.

Ford Performance Driving School

As a car manufacturing legend, Ford provides cars and practical skills for all driving enthusiasts, regardless of skill level or goal. Interested participants can attend a one or two-day course at any of their tracks in Utah for $1,695 or $3,195, respectively.

Exotics Racing Driving School

Located in one of the most extravagant cities, Los Angeles, the ERDS provides experience using some of the best luxury vehicles worldwide, like Aston Martin, McLaren, Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Mercedes. Prices vary from $170 to $400, and several celebrities have endorsed the experience.

A list of the best race-driving schools in the world at the moment
Scott Pye, driver of the #20 Seiko Racing Holden Commodore ZB, during the 2022 Supercars Championship Season at Adelaide Parklands Circuit on 1 December 2022 in Australia. Photo by Daniel Kalisz.
Source: Getty Images

Skip Barber Racing School

Founded in 1975 by legendary driver Skip Barber, the school has produced many professional motorsport drivers. Despite financial challenges, he started teaching with only two borrowed cars in various settings like autocross, skid pads and threshold braking zones. DeMonte Motorsports acquired the school and ran it.

What is the cheapest racing sport?

Several types of motor racing vary in the type of car, seating capacity, sporting rules, and other parameters. Go-karting, a variant of open-wheel racing, is affordable since it is offered in indoor arenas under controlled and relatively safe conditions. The most common categories include:

  • Open-wheel
  • Touring car
  • Sports car
  • Production car
  • Stock car
  • Rallying
  • Drag racing
  • Simulation

What is the easiest racing to join?

Simulation racing is arguably the easiest and cheapest sport, as enthusiasts can participate from the comfort of their homes. With access to a computer, a console and other optional motion-sensitive hardware, participants get an experience similar to racing on a track. Not only is this option cheaper, but it is also available to anyone, even without a driver's license.

A list of the best race-driving schools
People check out the 2018 Dodge Challenger Bondurant displayed at an LA Auto Show in Los Angeles, California, on 30 November 2017. Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP.
Source: Getty Images

What qualifications do you need to be a racer?

Whether one intends to race professionally or as a hobby, several requirements have to be met. In addition to having a valid driver's licence and receiving specialized lessons, participants need to sharpen their skills with constant practice, which is done by joining a race academy.

One also needs enough money to buy the necessary equipment and join a club, like the Sports Car Club of America(SSCA). It is an added advantage to know the mechanics and workings of a car. Like any other sport, being physically and mentally fit is also necessary.

Which is the best racing academy?

Rating training institutions depends on several factors, including the courses provided, available facilities, and training costs. Forbes classified the Skip Barber Racing School in Braselton, Georgia, and the Allen Berg Racing School, with a former Formula One World Championship driver as an instructor, among the top driving schools in the USA.

race-driving schools at the moment
Nick Percat and Chaz Mostert celebrate on the podium after the 2022 Supercars Championship Season at Adelaide Parklands Circuit on 3 December 2022 in Australia. Photo by Daniel Kalisz.
Source: Getty Images

How do you become a race driver?

Being a race car driver can be a gratifying job monetary-wise. However, it is also very demanding, both physically and psychologically. On top of maintaining a restricted sitting position, motorists must be entirely focused and completely aware of their immediate surroundings. The ability to process information quickly is paramount to safety, especially with a navigator.

Like driving on town roads, motor racing requires participants to obey road safety rules and regulations with additional focus. Race-driving schools enable speedsters to master control of their car and surroundings in a controlled environment for personal and public safety.

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Bertha Wanjiku