What Is an Instrument Rating? The Complete Guide.

What Is an Instrument Rating?

An instrument rating is an advanced certification that allows pilots to fly under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)—a set of regulations enabling flight in poor visibility or adverse weather using cockpit instruments rather than outside visual references. Unlike Visual Flight Rules (VFR), where navigation depends on clear skies and visual landmarks, IFR-certified pilots rely on instruments to maintain control and navigate airspace safely.

This rating is a critical milestone for pilots seeking to operate more confidently and safely in complex environments. It also serves as a stepping stone for those pursuing a professional aviation career.

An instrument rating is often described as the point at which a pilot transitions from basic flight skills to advanced airmanship. It sharpens your understanding of navigation systems, air traffic control communication, and weather interpretation, giving you the tools needed to operate in the National Airspace System with precision.

Who Needs an Instrument Rating?

While not mandatory for all pilots, an instrument rating becomes essential for those who want to:

• Fly in low-visibility conditions (e.g., clouds, fog, rain).

• Operate in controlled airspace under IFR.

• Pursue a career as a commercial or airline pilot.

• Expand their training beyond basic private pilot training.

Even for recreational pilots, earning an instrument rating enhances safety, decision-making, and flight planning skills—making it one of the most valuable add-ons in aviation.

Student pilots who eventually want to fly in diverse conditions or earn a Private Pilot Certificate often look ahead to the instrument rating as part of their long-term flight goals.

For pilots living in regions with frequent weather changes, such as the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast U.S., having an instrument rating can significantly increase the utility of your pilot certificate by allowing year-round flying. It transforms your flying from weather-dependent recreation to a truly reliable mode of transportation.

Requirements for an Instrument Rating

To qualify for an instrument rating in the U.S., pilots must meet FAA-regulated requirements, including specific training hours, testing, and certifications.

Certification Prerequisites

• Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate.

• Be proficient in English (reading, speaking, writing, understanding).

• Hold a current FAA medical certificate.

• Have completed the required ground instruction or a home-study course.

Many student pilots begin planning for their instrument rating while still working on their initial certificate, creating a training roadmap that aligns with their aviation goals.

Flight Time Requirements (Part 61 vs. Part 141)

Under Part 61, you must log:

• 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot-in-command.

• 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time, including 15 hours of instrument flight training with an authorized instructor.

Under Part 141 (structured flight school program), time requirements may be reduced due to a more formal curriculum.

Many pilots choose Part 141 programs when they are on a professional aviation track, as accredited flight academies often offer these programs and include comprehensive training plans.

Ground Training & Testing

• Complete an FAA-approved ground school or online study program.

• Pass the FAA Instrument Rating Knowledge Test (written).

• Successfully pass an Instrument Rating Practical Test (Checkride), which includes an oral exam and flight test.

The checkride evaluates both technical knowledge and the ability to execute precise procedures under simulated instrument conditions. This includes holding patterns, precision and non-precision approaches, and en route navigation.

Key FAA Regulations Around Instrument Rating

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enforces strict standards for instrument training, testing, and currency. These are governed under specific Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). Some crucial regulations include:

• 14 CFR § 61.65: Details all training and flight time requirements.

• Currency Requirements: Pilots must log six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and tracking tasks every six months to maintain IFR currency.

• IFR Flight Plan Filing: An IFR-certified pilot must file an IFR flight plan and receive an ATC clearance before flying in IFR conditions.

Failure to remain current could invalidate the pilot’s authority to operate under IFR, making recurrent training essential.

Additionally, FAR 91.171 outlines requirements for VOR equipment checks, while FAR 91.185 details procedures for lost communication scenarios during IFR operations. Familiarity with these regulations is critical for both checkrides and real-world flying.

Benefits of Earning an Instrument Rating

Whether flying for fun or building toward a career, an instrument rating offers significant advantages:

• Enhanced Safety: Navigate confidently through fog, rain, and clouds with increased situational awareness.

• Greater Flight Flexibility: Fly in a broader range of weather conditions and access more controlled airspace.

• Professional Advancement: A required step for those pursuing commercial aviation or advanced flight training.

• Improved Decision-Making: Better understand meteorology, navigation systems, and airspace management.

• Long-Term Skill Building: For student pilots planning their path from initial lessons to earning a Private Pilot Certificate, the instrument rating is a natural next step.

Many who learn to fly soon realize that weather is one of the most significant limitations in aviation. With an instrument rating, pilots can extend their flying season and reduce cancellations due to IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions).

An instrument rating also opens the door to more specialized aircraft and missions, such as flying high-performance aircraft, turbine engines, or even pursuing future certifications like Certified Flight Instructor - Instrument (CFII).

Final Thoughts on Advancing Your Pilot Certification

Earning your instrument rating is more than checking a box—it’s a commitment to becoming a safer, more capable pilot. Whether you're looking to overcome weather limitations, expand your private pilot training, or take the next step toward a professional career, the FAA instrument rating is an essential and rewarding milestone.

Always seek instruction from a certified flight training school and maintain your IFR proficiency to get the most from your investment in aviation.

Remember, mastering the skills involved in IFR operations not only makes you a better pilot—it also improves the safety and reliability of every flight you take. If you’re committed to reaching the highest levels of aviation skill and safety, the instrument rating is one of the most impactful certifications you can earn.