FAQ

Here are some answers to questions we're frequently asked about The Mid-Ohio School and our programs. Those marked with ** are specific to our Performance Track Riding program.

What changes have been made due to COVID-19?

Social distancing practices will be maintained as much as possible. Masks will be required at all times except when driving alone in a vehicle or wearing a full-face helmet. Instructors will also wear masks. If they need to be removed, appropriate distancing will take place.

What time do gates open?

Gate 3 is typically open by 7am. Participants who arrive the day before their class are welcome to camp outside of Gate 1.

What time is check-in/registration?

Please refer to https://midohio.com/courses for specific course information.

What kind of transmissions do the school cars have?

Most of the Acura ILX vehicles have standard transmissions, though a limited number of automatic transmission Acura ILXs are available. All of the Honda Civics have automatic transmissions. The Honda S2000 roadsters are all manual transmission vehicles.

How does the Skid Car work?

The skid car simulates hazardous driving conditions like rain, snow, ice, wet leaves and gravel through the use of hydraulically, or manually, controlled outriggers. These outriggers support the majority of the weight of the car, creating less contact between the tire(s) and the driving surface. The car is designed to properly teach students how to react to the effects of oversteer and understeer.

Can I use my own car or motorcycle?

You may use your own street legal car for the Defensive Driving Programs and High Performance Courses, including the Lapping Program. It is highly recommended to use the school-supplied Hondas and Acuras due to the typical wear and tear from going through an extensive driving program. The Mid-Ohio School's cars are specifically set up for use in these courses. Students participating in Open Test & Tune Sessions and Performance Track Riding must provide their own vehicle.

Are convertibles allowed?

Convertible automobiles are welcome for use in all on-track driving programs at The Mid-Ohio School as long as they are equipped with a proper roll bar. Roll bars are not required for Lead/Follow track lapping. Rules do vary by course type. Please read the Requirements section for each course.

Will helmets be provided?

Helmets will be provided to all driving program students. Helmets are not required for the Teen Defensive Driving Programs. PLEASE NOTE: Participants in the Open Test & Tune sessions MUST provide their OWN helmets: Full or open face of manufacturer choice (Bell, Simpson, G-Force, etc) with Snell or DOT approval dated at least 2015. Head & neck support system (HANS) recommended but not required. Motorcycle helmets will not be permitted.

What should I wear?

Dress casually and comfortably. Closed-toe shoes are required.

Will lunch be provided?

Yes. Lunch is included for participants (afternoon and twilight sessions excluded). Special dietary requests cannot be accepted at this time.

**What preparations are essential to my bike?

CLICK HERE for detailed Bike Preparation.

**Which group goes on track first?

Please note formats vary by type of Performance Track Riding event. Full day sessions: Riders will be separated into three levels - Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced. Intermediate riders will begin the session, followed by Advanced and Novice. Any changes will be announced during the mandatory riders' meeting. Twilight sessions: Riders will be separated into two levels – Intermediate and Advanced. Details will be announced in riders' meeting. Refer to course information for times.

**What is the Frequent Rider program?

The Frequent Rider Program is designed to reward our regulars with rescheduling flexibility and a few other perks. Simply purchase 4 track days or gift certificates directly from Mid-Ohio in the same season to reap the rewards. Purchase 4 days - reschedule one time with no fee. Purchase 7 days - reschedule 2 days with no fees. Purchase 10 days or more - reschedule 3 days with no fees PLUS be entered into a drawing on Appreciation Day to WIN FREE TRACK DAYS for the entire next year!

As a Frequent Rider, there will be no late registration fees.

If life gets in the way and you are unable to attend a scheduled track day, call up to 72 hours after the event and let us know when you'd like to come back. No questions asked and no reschedule fee. Fees will be waives a maximum of 3 times for Frequent Riders.

Frequent Rider benefits do not carry into the following year. The season's count will only include paid track days and gift certificates purchased directly from Mid-Ohio in the same season. Frequent Rider benefits cannot be transferred to another rider.

All Frequent Riders are invited to ride for FREE on Rider Appreciation Day!

Is gasoline available for purchase?

We have Sunoco gas available through our credit card pay pumps.

Fuel Available:

Cam2 (Purple) Leaded 100 Octane
Cam2 (Clear) Unleaded 100 Octane
260GTX Unleaded Non-Oxygenated 98 Octane
Premium Unleaded 93 Octane

Pumps are available any time the facility is open. Payment method is by major credit card only - including but not limited to: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and Sunoco credit/cash cards.

Where can I stay if I'm traveling in from out of town?

A number of quality lodging options are available near Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course -- the location where The Mid-Ohio School courses are held.

The Comfort Inn-Bellville and Quality Inn & Suites-Bellville are the Preferred Hotels of Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course. For reservations and information, contact the Comfort Inn-Bellville at (419) 886-4000 or Quality Inn & Suites at (419) 886-7000. Mention that you are attending The Mid-Ohio School and these two hotels will offer you a discount off their standard room rates.

For further tourist information, please contact the Mansfield and Richland County Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-800-642-8282 or visit them online at www.mansfieldtourism.com.

What happens if there is bad weather?

Programs will run rain or shine. We always recommend checking the course calendar for possible changes or updates before beginning your travel to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

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