Instrument Rating
Fly in clouds and low visibility conditions using only your instruments. Essential for serious pilots.
50
Minimum Hours
65
Average Hours
5
Milestones
Training Milestones
Key achievements you'll accomplish on your way to earning your Instrument certificate.
Start flying "under the hood" to simulate instrument conditions while building scan patterns.
Estimated time: 5 hours
Execute your first ILS, VOR, or GPS approach to land using only instruments.
Estimated time: 15 hours
File and fly an IFR flight plan covering at least 250nm with approaches at each airport.
Estimated time: 35 hours
Pass the FAA Instrument Rating Knowledge Test covering IFR procedures and regulations.
Complete your instrument practical test and earn the ability to fly in the clouds!
Requirements
FAA requirements for the Instrument Rating (14 CFR Part 61 Subpart B)
Hold a Private Pilot Certificate
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
Complete required instrument flight training
50 hours PIC cross-country time
40 hours actual or simulated instrument time
Pass the Instrument Rating Knowledge Test
Pass the Instrument Rating Practical Test
Checklists
Detailed requirements for key milestones in your Instrument training.
Instrument Rating Checkride Checklist
Requirements for your Instrument Rating practical test.
Pilot certificate
Medical certificate
Photo ID
Logbook with endorsements
Knowledge test results
Current IFR charts
View-limiting device
50 hours PIC cross-country
40 hours actual or simulated instrument
15 hours instrument with CFII
250nm IFR cross-country
This checklist is for reference only. Your instructor will verify all requirements.
Study Resources
Recommended materials for your Instrument training.
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
FeaturedThe FAA's comprehensive guide to aeronautical knowledge for pilots.
Airplane Flying Handbook
FeaturedFAA handbook covering airplane flight maneuvers and procedures.
Instrument Procedures Handbook
The go-to resource for instrument flying procedures.
Instrument Flying Handbook
FAA handbook for instrument flight training.
Ready to Start?
Schedule your first Instrument training flight and begin working toward your certificate.
Schedule on FSPWhat's Next?
After completing your Instrument, continue your journey with the Commercial Pilot Certificate.
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