2026 Driver's Education Schedule
For 2026, we will be holding two, possibly three, Driver Education (DE) events. These are non-competitive, non-timed driving sessions to practice high-speed handling. All drivers are placed in appropriate skill-level groups. Beginning drivers are paired with instructors. Drivers typically run four to five 20-25 minute sessions.
2026 DE Schedule
May 1s – Buttonwillow Raceway, Classic Track.
June 29th – WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (92 decibel limit)
Fall DE date to be determined
Buttonwillow Raceway Park
Buttonwillow Raceway Park stands as a premier destination for road racing and testing in the United States. Its versatility draws a diverse crowd, including club racers, track day enthusiasts, motorcycle riders, professional race teams, car manufacturers, tire companies, media outlets, commercial producers, and go-karters. Conveniently located just ½ mile west of Interstate 5 on Lerdo Highway, and 28 miles northwest of Bakersfield, CA, the track offers easy access to the Central California Coast, and is only about an hour and thirty minutes away from Paso Robles.
The new course, The Circuit, is a 2.579 mile road course opened in 2024. The highest FIA track-specific standards have been met for the new circuit, included are new food service amenities, garages and bathroom facilities. The Circuit is a twisty and rousing 2.579-mile, 10-turn course running in a clockwise direction.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
Laguna Seca Raceway, now known as WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a renowned paved road racing track nestled in central California. Constructed in 1957 near Salinas and Monterey, California, United States, it serves as a venue for both auto racing and motorcycle racing. Spanning 2.238 miles (3.602 km) in length, the track features a notable 180 ft (55 m) elevation change and showcases eleven turns, including its iconic feature, the downhill-plunging “Corkscrew” at Turns 8 and 8A. Classified as an FIA Grade Two circuit, Laguna Seca’s infamous Corkscrew turn is revered as one of the most challenging in motorsport due to its 59 ft (18 m) drop in elevation, blind crest, and apex on the uphill approach.
Other Opportunities
If you crave more than three events a year or just want to try some other tracks like Willow Springs Raceway, Thunder Hill Raceway Park, or Sonoma Raceway, you’re in luck. As a PCA member, you can join any other chapter’s DE events (pending availability). All you have to do is check out the other region’s website or go to the HAGERTY MotorsportReg website where you’ll find the world’s largest motorsport event calendar.