HPDE 1 requires you to take an instructor out each session. BUT, if you have previous track experience and get an instructor to vouch for you (or Derek) they will probably be able to move you to HPDE 2 within the day and allow you to go out solo.

I had to a few times last November due to a lack of instructors at one point... made me nervous, but Derek told the guy letting us out on the track "He's ready... send him out!"