Point By

A point by is a hand signal used by a driver on a racetrack to tell another driver behind them that it's safe to pass and which side to pass on.

When drivers of different skill levels share a track—like at track day events or driving schools—faster cars will naturally catch up to slower ones. Instead of the faster driver guessing when to pass, the slower driver takes control of the situation by giving a point by signal. This simple communication prevents confusion and keeps everyone safer on track.

The signal works like this: the driver being overtaken sticks their arm out the window and points to either the left or right side of their car. If they point left, they're telling the faster driver to pass on the left side. If they point right, the pass should happen on the right. Some drivers point over their car's roof to indicate a right-side pass. This clear communication means both drivers know exactly what's about to happen.

Point by signals are most common at High-Performance Driver Education events, often called HPDE, and casual track days. These aren't wheel-to-wheel races where drivers compete directly against each other. Instead, they're learning environments or recreational driving sessions where the goal is improvement and enjoyment, not winning. In these settings, passing usually only happens in designated zones—typically the straight sections of track—and only after a point by is given.

When weather conditions make it impossible to put your arm out the window, or when a car has a window net installed for safety, drivers can use their turn signals instead. A left turn signal means pass on the left, and a right turn signal means pass on the right. This alternative method ensures communication continues even when traditional hand signals aren't practical.

Even after receiving a point by, the driver doing the passing carries the ultimate responsibility for completing the maneuver safely. The driver giving the signal should hold their racing line steady and avoid any sudden steering movements or braking. Think of the point by as permission to pass, not a guarantee that the pass will be risk-free.

Good track etiquette means giving point by signals promptly when a faster car approaches from behind. Holding up faster traffic is considered poor form, even in advanced driving groups where point by signals might not be strictly required. Checking your mirrors frequently and being aware of cars around you makes the entire track day experience better for everyone.

This passing system might seem formal compared to street driving, but it exists for good reason. On a racetrack, cars travel at much higher speeds with less margin for error. The point by system creates predictability in an environment where surprise moves can lead to serious incidents. It's one of the fundamental safety practices that allows drivers of all experience levels to share the same track safely.