Ever wonder what your street car was really capable of? Want to be a safer driver when it comes to evasive maneuvers? Nowadays you can explore the performance limits of your own car and gain new skills at top speed without breaking the law. More and more racetracks around the country are offering "track days" for non-professional drivers. Many are set up by brand-specific sports car clubs but others are ad hoc schools that welcome anyone.

The good ones combine both classroom and personalized instruction with plenty of open track time. You don't need a racing license or a specially prepared race car, just good tires and good brakes with new brake pads. You should expect to burn off a quarter to half of your available tread in a full day of hard driving.

Many tracks do require helmets, either open or full-face. If you get really serious — or just want to look the part — you can spring for a driving suit, gloves and racing shoes with very thin soles so you can really feel the pedals. If you've never "done the Ton (hit 100 miles per hour) and then some" in your car, here's the chance to see what it feels like!

• Track days and schools can now be found at most road-racing tracks.
  
• Prices range from $200-$700 a day if you bring your own car.
  
• High performance cars can be rented at some tracks.
  
• Z-rated performance tires cost more but offer better traction.
  
• Here's what it costs to buy equipment if you later get serious about it:
  • Helmet, $150-$600
    
  • Driving suit, $100-$1,000
    
  • Gloves, $40-$120
    
  • Shoes, $60-$220