Defensive Driving Academy

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Defensive Driving Academy Overview

Looking to boost your skills and confidence behind the wheel? Whether you’re new to driving or a seasoned roadster, our Defensive Driving Academy offers an exhilarating alternative to the traditional defensive driving experience. From learning to maintain awareness and anticipate potential hazards to improving your reaction times, we’re here to prepare you for the road ahead.

Boring? Never. We’re throwing out everything you thought you knew about defensive driving with an unmatched experience and unrivaled education at our world-class, purpose-built facility. This is the defensive driving class you didn’t know you were missing. Bring your friends. Bring your family. Bring your A-game. We’re taking your defensive driving training to a whole new level. You may even qualify for a discount with participating insurance carriers.

Helmet

Course fundamentals:

– For all ages: teens under 18 to seasoned drivers.
– Develop safe, controlled, and responsible driving habits
– Basics of car control across a variety of conditions
– Accident-avoidance fundamentals

Speedo

Course specs:

– 4:1 student/instructor ratio
– ~80% seat time
– Real-world scenarios
– Teens with DL or valid learners permit, seasoned drivers
– Insurance discounts with some carriers

Defensive Driving Academy Course Options

1 Day

$1999

Curriculum
Class Introduction
Slalom
Accident Avoidance Drill
Pad Oval
Lunch
Track Intro/LF
Auto-X
Instructor Hot Laps
Graduation

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2 Day

$2999

Day-1 Curriculum
Slalom
Accident Avoidance Drill
Ground School
Lunch
Class Session
Skid Car
Pad Oval
Debrief

Day-2 Curriculum
Ground School
High Speed Braking Clinic
Advanced Handling Drill on Maricopa Oval
Into to Auto-X
Lunch
Classroom Session
Track Intro/LF
Advanced Auto-X
Graduation

Don’t see the dates you need? Call 480-403-7600 for more course options.

Get More Info

If you have any questions not covered on our site, feel free to fill out this form and we’ll get you the answers you’re after. Or you can also call anytime at 480-403-7600.

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Here’s What Our Students Are Saying!

Excellent
4.8
Based on 423 reviews
TresAmenazas
2 days ago
Gayle Van F.
1 week ago
I attended your SRT Experience on Sept 25, 2026 for a really fun day at your facility. I'm really happy that Dodge provided this experience with the purchase of my 2026 Charger Scat Pack Plus. Radford Racing School provided a wonderful day of challenging events. Radford had wonderful instructors, top notch cars and great organization. I'm glad Radford had a couple of 2026 Charger Scat Packs to race on the Auto Cross. What fun to see what your new car is all about.... at least at low speeds. The Supercharged Challengers were amazing cars and their durability is outstanding after discussing with the instructors. My wife participated in the "Hot Laps" where the instructors drive the race track and you hang on in the passenger seat. My wife asked for a spicy ride and the instructor gladly obliged . She was all giggles from that experience! If you buy a new Dodge and get this experience included you should definitely attend. Wayne S.
Response from the owner:We are so happy you had an amazing experience! We love our SRT program and we hope to see you back at the track again soon.
Natalia C.
2 months ago
After receiving my Barbie Dream car
Response from the owner:Natalia, We are so happy you had the best time in our class! Thank you for coming out and learning with us. We appreciate you and your kind words. We hope to see you again soon on the track!
ravi T.
2 months ago
Visited for DDSL track was in good condition, no complaints.
Mark B.
2 months ago
I did the 3 day GT Road Racing Course. It was fantastic and I will be doing a class with them in the future. I was surprised by how much in car driving was done and the class had student to instructor ratio of 3 to 1. I would estimate 5hrs of car driving per day. The first day focused on technique and handling of the car so we were on the autocross track for the morning and moved to the oval track in the afternoon. In most of the sessions, you did a group drive with the instructor to show you how it is done then you get in your car and do instructor lead follow then you do the drill on your own. The instructor normally took a turn with everyone to give them some feedback. There is lot of track time and classroom is held to minimal amount to teach you the basics and go over what you learned at the end of the day.
Response from the owner:Mark, Thank you so much for this amazing review! We cannot wait to have you back on track. We truly want to give each student an incredible experience on and off the track.
Scott W.
4 months ago
My kids are relatively new drivers, and they took the 2-day Defensive Driving course. Of course, they had a great deal of fun (how could you not?), but I also feel like they just received 5 years worth of experience in two days. Their confidence level behind the wheel has grown by leaps and bounds. But more importantly, I'm certain that their ability to avoid accidents in the future has been greatly enhanced. I think many accidents happen because people don't know how their car is going to react in a pressure situation, and they end up losing control because they've never pushed a car's limits to see what it can - and can't - do. This school will give you a very good idea of how to feel what your vehicle is doing underneath you. If my kids can steer their way around just one big accident in their lives because of what they've learned at Radford, then it's been worth every penny! Shout out to instructor Dominic, and the rest of the staff as well, for running a top notch program and providing an invaluable service to drivers. It's a shame that everyone can't participate in a school like this...
Response from the owner:Scott, we are so happy you and your sons enjoyed the time on our track! We hope to see you all again.
paul P.
4 months ago
Hellcat J.
4 months ago
Radford Racing School is awesome. We got to drive Hellcat Challengers all day. The instructors were very knowledgeable, and cool. The staff was friendly. Non alcoholic drinks were served all day long and lunch was provided. The class got to drive the new SRT Charger, too. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience for me.
Response from the owner:We are so glad you had an amazing experience! We hope to see you on the track again soon.
Amy B.
4 months ago
I did the SRT owner experience day and it was awesome! The instructors were great as well as the rest of the staff. It was definitely worth the trip out here from the east coast!
Response from the owner:Thank you Amy! We are so happy you enjoyed the SRT Experience!
NATHAN M.
5 months ago
What a great experience. This was my second time there. The staff is awesome and freindly. If you like to drive in a racecar environment, this is the place.
Response from the owner:Thank you for this amazing review Nathan!!!
Rick S.
5 months ago
I have attended several road and drag racing courses over the years. The Radford Dodge Demon 170 course was at the top of my list for excellence. I thought nothing could top the excellent quality instructors, an outstanding course schedule, driving Radford's Demon 170's, and completing the requirements for an NHRA competition license. Last weekend Radford sent one of their top-notch instructors, Rich Lash, to the MSHS "Mopars at the Rock" event at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. Rich and I had maintained contact after I took the 170 course, and we agreed to meet at the Rock. Rich agreed to "look" at my car and provide any advice. The resulting interaction was the most valuable I have received from any of the courses taken. Although Rich was meeting with any other drivers at the Rock, he came well prepared to assist past Radford 170 participants and others. He showed up with the latest power grids for the trans break. (The Demon 170 has computer set points from launch to the first 1.6 seconds) We switched from what we called the original 3(B) to a modified B grid that others used successfully attain the 9.5 second runs I was looking for. After watching two runs, Rich determined that the shift power set points needed adjustment. He next noticed that the car lifted about five hundred feet down the track. Again, Rich had the knowledge and experience to know about a transmission fluid issue that requires the addition of 55 ml of transmission fluid to a full transmission to be added thru the transmission air vent. The 170 uses specific type of transmission fluid that was not available at the track so I wrote that fix off as something that I would have to address in the future. I tested the car and the changes that Rich suggested were on point, bringing the car from an also ran to competitive. Rich then went above and beyond. He showed up the next morning with a quart of Dodge transmission fluid and the small funnel that was required to pour it down the transmission vent. He had canvassed his contacts at the race and found a quart of transmission fluid and the funnel. Once the transmission issue was addressed, I went back to the track with an amazing car that no longer dipped or lifted with no hesitation between shifts. I (and several other drivers ) were still having difficulties with the line lock and trans brake initiation process. Rich made very constructive recommendations and set up 15 minutes before racing started to give us time to process in the lane with active lights. We did not launch, just practiced with active lights. Rich watched and determined that one of my problems was related to releasing the brake pedal after the release of one of the two paddles (170 owners probably know what I'm talking about). That leaves you dead at the green light. His advice on how to avoid that problem was spot on. The thing that was amazing what that Rich provided expert counsel and advice not only for Radford participants, but for others that were having Mopar issues or questions. A number of individuals in our racing group received advice on everything from tire pressures to the fool proof method to release the foot brake after the first paddle release in the trans break process. Rich was asked and answered questions on every Dodge model that was racing. I am by no means a novice- over the years I regularly won my class in the NMCA HEMI Shootout, and participating in the Quick 8 quite often. But it was an exceptional experience to get advice on my specific car at the track during an actual competitive event. I'm not sure that anyone can remember everything during course driving a third party vehicle. But I clearly retained what I learned sitting in my own car on a race weekend. The benefit was enormous. Rich also provided advice and counsel to many other drivers at the event. The feedback from those drivers was exceptional. I want to thank Radford and Rich for extending their experience and advice beyond the course in Phoenix. The extra effort that Rich put forth is what makes racing a community.
Response from the owner:Rick, thank you so much for this incredible review!! We are very lucky to have Rich as one of our Drag Racing instructors. We are so happy he was able to help you and make the event even better.
Ivan P.
5 months ago
Tom B.
6 months ago
Nice facility. This event was run by NASA-AZ (a road racing event) These trackdays are a favorite of Arizona's automotive road racing community
Ryan H.
6 months ago
Amazing! Such a fun time.
Jason J.
6 months ago
Instructors are great and had the time of my life. Definitely will be back.
Derek E.
7 months ago
Everyone at Radford Racing was fantastic. We did the Drag program and not only had a blast but learned a lot both drag racing, the track itself, and the demon 170 vehicle. Thank you again.
Response from the owner:We are so happy you enjoyed your time with us!
Nick
7 months ago
The whole crew is amazing! William and Spencer worked directly with us during the four day GT class and they were awesome! Stephanie and lauren also killed it at the front desk. This school is definitely worth the cost of admission!!
Response from the owner:Thank you! We appreciate this awesome review. We hope to see you on the track soon!
Ali C.
8 months ago
I went as part of a group experience for a conference I was attending. It was so cool. We got to pace with a lead car and then we also drove on a coned...
Kevin T.
9 months ago
I attended the two-day Ultimate Muscle Car Experience from 1-6 to 1-7 with my daughter and it was an amazing experience for both of us. The instructors went...
Rugby
9 months ago
Ford vs Ferrari
Matthew C.
10 months ago
(fka Bonderant Racing School) Whether you're planning to race professionally, are already a racecar driver, an enthusiast who wants to drive fast safely, or want better control and understanding of your car, Radford Racing is for you! Incredible instructors with decades of experience racing and teaching, who build your skills from the ground up. Not only do you walk away with a much greater understanding of driving dynamics and car control, but an incredible experience, and many hours of drive time. I would rather go to Radford than take a cruise or go to Disney. I've been twice, to take the GT Road Racing course in January and this time the Advanced Road Racing course in December. So enjoyable! So beneficial! I'm exhausted from the course, but want to go back!
Response from the owner:Thank you for this amazing review! We are so happy you spent time on our track and we hope to see you back again soon.
Ed C.
10 months ago
I took the 2 day Dodge Demon 170 Class, it was amazing. Learned so much about the car, driving and racing. Instructors are phenomenal and I would highly recommend this school
Response from the owner:We hope we made your time with us memorable and supercharged! 😉 Thank you for this great review!!
Kelly T.
11 months ago
I attended the 2 day Performance Driving School from 11-17 to 11/18. My only disappointment was it rained the 2nd day, (I mean poured, a rare thing in...
Rafa G.
12 months ago
Spent a nice day here, hadn't been so excited in a long time! 🚧 At the end of the day I was given "cone killer award" wich is not something you usually want to brag about, but I loved my trophy and all in all I'm so glad I attended Redford Driving school.
Response from the owner:Amazing pictures!!! We are so honored to have had your group out with us on track and being the Cone Killer can't be a bad thing 😉
Mitch L.
12 months ago
Road warrior weekend 2025 was incredible I can’t thank all of the staff and instructors for such an amazing experience. All of the instructors are top notch and incredible at what they do. I can’t wait to return next year to learn more from these amazing people.
Response from the owner:Thank you! We cannot wait to have you back on our track!

Defensive Driving Academy – FAQs

The Radford Defensive Driving Academy offers both a one-day and a two-day course. The one-day session includes foundational classroom instruction, slalom exercises, accident‑avoidance drills, autocross, and hot laps, while the two-day option builds on that with high-speed braking, advanced handling, and extra autocross training.

Our Defensive Driving Academy are capped at a maximum of 12 students. This is to maximize the effectiveness of our in-depth driver training. We focus on delivering individualized training that is tailored to our students’ driving experience to make sure they get the most out of their day with us.

Regular hours are 8:30 am – 4:00 pm (October – May). Summer hours are 7:00 am – 2:30 pm (June – September).

Students will need an SA2020 or higher-rated helmet. Helmets can be bought in our pro shop for $229 or rented for just $25 a day. Students will also need closed-toed shoes, driving shoes are preferred.

Yes, students who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.

You can view our course policies and hospitality fees here: https://radfordracingschool.com/course-policies/.
The Defensive Driving Academy is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their driving skills with professional-level training. Whether you’re a new driver, a business professional, or someone who wants to enhance safety and control on the road, this course is designed to equip you with advanced techniques that apply to everyday driving and high-pressure scenarios alike.
Yes, participants must hold a valid driver’s license and be comfortable operating a standard vehicle. While you don’t need racing or performance driving experience, a basic level of driving competency is required to get the most out of the program.
Absolutely. The course can be especially valuable for teen drivers or those newly licensed, providing them with real-world defensive driving strategies that go beyond what’s taught in traditional driver’s education. It’s a practical and effective way to build confidence, awareness, and reaction skills from the start.
Unlike standard driving lessons that focus on rules of the road and basic vehicle operation, the Defensive Driving Academy is built around proactive safety and control. You’ll learn how to anticipate hazards, recover from skids, manage emergency braking, and drive with heightened situational awareness, all in a controlled, high-performance environment with expert instruction.
Yes, we offer bespoke group experiences and corporate driving programs tailored to company safety initiatives or team-building objectives. These sessions can be customised for fleet drivers, executive teams, or any group looking to invest in defensive driving proficiency.
While insurance benefits vary by provider, some insurers recognise the value of advanced driving courses and may offer discounts for completing a certified defensive driving program. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to see if Radford’s Defensive Driving Academy qualifies.

The Benefits of Advanced Defensive Driving Training

Our advanced defensive driving training goes far beyond the basics of road safety. It equips you with the split-second decision-making skills and situational awareness needed to stay in control under pressure. Whether it’s mastering emergency braking, navigating unpredictable traffic scenarios, or handling adverse weather conditions, the Radford Defensive Driving Academy prepares you for the unexpected.

By learning how to anticipate and avoid potential hazards before they occur, drivers not only reduce the risk of accidents but also gain greater confidence behind the wheel.

Safer, Smarter Driving Starts at Radford

We believe that safe driving is skilled driving. Our Defensive Driving Academy empowers participants to take charge of their safety through expert training and hands-on experience with performance vehicles. This isn’t passive learning; it’s full engagement with every corner, swerve, and scenario.

We’ve created a purpose-built environment where drivers can push their limits and develop safe driving techniques without compromising safety. Our instructors guide each student through high-intensity drills that translate directly to real-life defensive responses, giving you the tools to drive smarter and safer every day.

Why Choose Radford Defensive Driving Academy?

Radford’s Defensive Driving Academy is not your average driving course. Designed for those who want to go beyond the basics, our program offers a professional-level approach to real-world safety. With decades of motorsports experience, our instructors deliver practical, high-performance defensive driving techniques that have been refined on the track and tailored for the road.

Every aspect of the academy is designed for immersive learning. From our state-of-the-art facilities and fleet of high-performance vehicles to the low student-to-instructor ratio, your experience is built to produce results. Whether you’re driving for work, personal safety, or preparedness, Radford’s Defensive Driving Academy gives you the skills, confidence, and edge to drive at your best.

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