black88coupe,
HPDE stands for High Performance Driving Experience. HPDE are the NON-race categories run by N.A.S.A (National Auto Sport Association aka NASA aka nasa in road racing discussions here and elsewhere). It is one of the easiest, safest, most cost effective, and fun ways to get you and your car on a road race course.
One just needs a car in good, safe operating condition, a SA rated helmet (SA is for autoracing and costs about twice as much as an MA motorcycle helmet due to the extra safety engineering to withstand multiple impacts during an accident and fire retardance issues, as well as the fact that those costs are spread over fewer units sold than motorcycle helmets, etc) and a little cash. Typically a couple hundred bucks per weekend. It is definitely a step up the thrills and grins ladder from autocrossing, but as expected, a bit more, but not too much is involved. It is really pretty easy to get started. Check out
www.nasaproracing.com and look for the HPDE area and the Regions, Northeast or go directly to
www.nasanortheast.org site.
NASA also runs the infamous American Iron and Camaro Mustang Challenge racing series which often run on the same weekends as the HPDE events... two birds with one stone... both driving your car and watch great road racing!
Be glad to help you out, please post questions as needed.
hped 
