BMW Performance Driving School

May 6, 2010  |  Events/Programs

BMW Performance School Header

Performance driving (per-for-mance dri-ving; verb, transitive) – the act of extracting the highest level of performance from an automobile by its driver under any circumstances.

Synonyms: fun, exhilarating, challenging, dynamic

At BMW, we possess such a profound belief in high-performance driving—and the driver’s right to experience every heart-pounding moment of it—that we invested $12 million to create the BMW Performance Center.

Home of the BMW Performance Driving School Delivery Center and BMW Motorcycle Rider Training, the center and its staff equip attendees with the skills necessary to enjoy the ultimate driving experience time and time again. Thanks to our fleet of the latest BMW models, a team of BMW Driver Training Instructors and a challenging mix of low- and high-speed driving exercises, we’ll help you become a confident, safe and enthusiastic driver.

Whether you’ve been driving for decades, have just received your learner’s permit, or just out to push a vehicle to its limits, our different driving programs will help make you a safer, stronger and more confident driver. And while BMW ownership is not required, a passion for spirited driving is.

Programs & Courses
It’s simple. In order to maximize the joy of driving, one must become a better driver—and drive a better car. We’ll help you with both.

We believe that just as the car is an extension of the driver, the driver an extension of the car. When both work together seamlessly, the driver maximizes vehicle performance and therefore the joy of driving.

“We had such a wonderful experience that we will be BMW owners for life! We truly mean that. Your attention to detail and the first class hospitality will never be forgotten. We love all the owners and miss our ‘BMW Camp’ already.”
-BM & DM

At the BMW Performance Driving School, each driving program is designed to develop and to exercise a specific set of skills. We invite you to explore each exhilarating program to determine which is right for you, your friends and even your family.

For reservations, call (888) 345-4269, or sign up for a Performance Driving School course

Driver’s Program
Designed for new performance drivers or performance drivers whose skills are underdeveloped.

M School
Designed for more experienced and skilled performance drivers who are ready for the ultimate thrill.

Teen School
Designed with an emphasis on safety and caution.

Motorcycle
Designed for those who prefer two-wheel domination as opposed to four.

BMW Performance Driving School

BMW Performance Driving School location

FAQs about BMW Performance Driving School

The $12.5 million, 64,000 square-foot BMW Performance Driving School is located in Spartanburg County near the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport. It is a state-of-the-art conference center; customer delivery center; and service, paint and body facility. It also offers unparalleled Performance Driver training courses as well as an aggressive Other Roads driving course.
What is the Performance Driving Course?

The physical layout of the Performance Driving course has been designed to provide BMW with various course configurations to simulate real-world driving conditions:

  • The exterior radius is .9 mile in length.
  • The overall paved area is 1.7 miles, varying in width from 24 to 48 feet.
  • A 300-foot trowelled concrete skid pad demonstrates BMW systems.
  • Leading into the skid pad is a unique accident-avoidance area, comprised of five water walls activated by an instructor in the control tower.
  • The course is comprised of both decreasing and increasing radius turns, elevation changes and straight aways, allowing for multiple course configurations.
You do not have to own a BMW in order to participate in a Performance Driving School course. All the driving schools are conducted in various current model year BMWs.
Who teaches the Performance Driving School courses?
All of our instructors are BMW-certified Driving Instructors. They have been trained at the Professional level in Munich for driver training. They have varied backgrounds that include race car drivers from NASCAR, the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), and the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA).
How much seat time versus classroom time is allocated during the Performance Driving School course?
Because the instructors communicate with school participants via two-way radios in the cars, there is more seat time in the vehicle and immediate feedback during exercises. The school is scheduled to include a 10–15 minute talk before each exercise; then there’s plenty of time in the seat for actual practice.
Is there a minimum age for driving or riding?
  • You must have a minimum of a driving permit from your state of residence in order to participate in the Teen School.
  • You must be at least 18 to participate in M School or Advanced M School.
  • All other schools require a valid driver’s license.
Schools typically end at 4:30 p.m. and the airport is one exit from the Performance Driving School.
What if I need to rent a car while in the area?
Greenville-Spartanburg Airport has all the national rental companies.
What is the dress code?
The dress code for the driving school is casual and comfortable. Foremost, please wear comfortable, completely enclosed shoes for the driving.
Is it possible to bring a guest?
The school is designed for registered participants only. Your guest may lounge at our outdoor patio or enjoy our M café. They will not be permitted on the course.
Are there fax machines, copiers, and computer/modem lines available?
The Performance Driving School has fax machines, copiers and limited telephones for your use. We are also a wireless facility for computer use.
What time should I arrive?
Typically, a Performance Driving School course begins at 8:00 a.m. Times may vary and you should refer to your confirmation letter for specific dates and times of your class.
What hotels are in the area?

There are many hotels in the Greenville-Spartanburg area. A few to consider are:

  • The Greenville Marriott – located off of Interstate 85, 3 exits from the Performance Center
  • The Spartanburg Marriott – located in the growing Spartanburg downtown area
  • The Westin Poinsett – located in the beautiful downtown Greenville area
What if I plan to take the train or arrive by private plane?
Plan to arrive at the Greenville, South Carolina train station. For private aircraft, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) is the primary airport and the FBO is Stevens Aviation.
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