Most people call it skid training, but the formal name is advanced driving course on a track. This is a mandatory part of driver training for Class B, and must be completed before you can take your driving test.
This course is not intended as a skills test, but aims to give you experience of how the car behaves on slippery surfaces, and how speed and choices affect the situation.
What is a track safety course?
The driving safety course is conducted on a closed training track with a slippery surface. Here you will experience how the car reacts when road grip is reduced. For many, it can be a big surprise how long the braking distance becomes, even at moderate speeds.
On the field, you work with, among other things:
- Braking on slippery surfaces
- Maneuver and Control
- The relationship between speed and stopping distance
- Risk assessment in various situations
The intention here is for you to experience the difference between what you think is happening and what is actually happening when the grip is lost.
Why is skid pan training mandatory?
Track safety courses are part of the step-by-step training process for driver training in class B. Experience shows that a lack of understanding of speed and road conditions is a major cause of serious accidents. Therefore, the course is compulsory.
Once you've experienced how the car skids yourself, it becomes easier to understand why speed must be adapted to conditions. The course aims to help you develop an understanding of risk and make more conscious choices as a driver.
This means it's not about teaching someone a technique to «save the car», but rather gaining insight into how to avoid ending up in a dangerous situation.
When does the advanced skid control course take place?
A safety course on a track is usually carried out at step 3 of the training, when you have acquired basic driving skills. You must be able to handle the car independently before going to the track.
The course normally lasts one day and consists of both practical exercises and group reflection. Along the way, you'll pause to discuss what's happening, so that experiences are put into context with theory and assessment.
Is skidding a test?
No. There is no pass or fail like on the driving test. This is a mandatory course that must be completed and registered. The goal is learning, not assessment.
As long as you participate actively and complete the day, the course will be approved.
An eye-opener for aspiring drivers
For many, skidding is an eye-opener. Once you've experienced how little it takes for a car to lose grip, you'll have a different relationship with speed and distance.
At Oslo Team Driving School, we ensure you are well-prepared before the track safety course. We want you not only to complete the course but also to come away with experience that will make you a better driver on the road.