Highly skilled specialist who performs controlled, repeatable vehicle maneuvers for film and television – executes precise driving marks, maintains consistent speed and position for camera, and performs non-crash driving sequences requiring exceptional vehicle control and timing.
What is a Precision Driver?
A Precision Driver is a specialized driver for controlled vehicle maneuvers in front of the camera. Unlike stunt drivers who perform crashes, precision drivers focus on exact, repeatable driving for dialogue and chase scenes.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Focus | Precision, Repeatability |
| Type | Non-Crash Driving |
| Skills | Vehicle Control |
| Department | Stunts/Transportation |
Precision vs. Stunt Driver
| Aspect | Precision | Stunt |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Accuracy | Action |
| Maneuver | Controlled | Crash, Rollover |
| Risk | Lower | Higher |
| Repeatable | Yes | Often One-Time |
Typical Tasks
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Driving on Mark | Hit exact position |
| Speed Control | Constant speed |
| Process Driving | Dialogue scenes |
| Chase Sequences | Pursuit drives |
Driving on Mark
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Position vehicle exactly |
| Tolerance | Centimeter-accurate |
| Timing | Synchronized with action |
| Repetition | Same every take |
Process Trailer Work
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Setup | Car on trailer |
| Driver | Drives the trailer |
| Actor | In static car |
| Challenge | Smooth for camera |
Insert Car / Tow
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Insert Car | Camera vehicle |
| Tow | Picture car being towed |
| Precision Driver | Operates insert car |
| Coordination | With camera team |
Skills
| Skill | Importance |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Control | Essential |
| Timing | Critical |
| Spatial Awareness | Very High |
| Communication | Important |
Vehicle Types
| Type | Specialization |
|---|---|
| Cars | Standard |
| Motorcycles | Additional skills |
| Trucks | Specialists |
| Historical | Period Vehicles |
Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| License | All classes |
| Training | Stunt driving school |
| Experience | Track, racing |
| Insurance | Fully insured |
Training
| Area | Content |
|---|---|
| Basics | High-speed driving |
| Precision | Marks, timing |
| Recovery | Restoring control |
| Vehicle Preparation | Technical knowledge |
Collaboration
| With | Topic |
|---|---|
| Stunt Coordinator | Choreography |
| Camera Department | Framing, timing |
| Director | Intention |
| Actors | Safety |
On-Set Protocol
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Briefing | Before each sequence |
| Walk-Through | Without vehicle |
| Slow Run | Reduced speed |
| Full Speed | After clearance |
Safety
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Route Clearing | Clear path |
| Communication | Radio with team |
| Backup | Emergency procedures |
| Insurance | Comprehensive |
Equipment
| Item | Use |
|---|---|
| Radio | Communication |
| Markers | For marks |
| Speedometer | Precisely calibrated |
| Personal Gear | Gloves, etc. |
Career Path
| Level | Position |
|---|---|
| Entry | Background Driver |
| Junior | Utility Driver |
| Mid | Precision Driver |
| Senior | Stunt Driving Coordinator |
Budget Aspects
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Day Rate | Higher than standard |
| Vehicle | Often brought by driver |
| Insurance | Premium |
| Availability | Book in advance |
Typical Sequences
| Sequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Dialog Drive | Actors speaking |
| Pursuit | Chase |
| Parallel Drive | Two vehicles side-by-side |
| POV Drive | Subjective camera |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Rehearsals | Perfect timing |
| Communication | Clarity |
| Consistency | Matching in post-production |
| Safety | Always the first priority |
Today
Precision drivers are indispensable for modern film production involving vehicle scenes. Their combination of technical skill, timing, and professionalism enables complex driving sequences with maximum safety. With LED volumes and virtual production, the work is changing, but the fundamental skills remain essential.