IFR Privileges, Currency & Proficiency
Key rules on instrument rating privileges, the 6/6 currency window, IPCs, and logging instrument time.
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Questions Covered in This Set
12 cards to master
What privileges does an instrument rating grant?
File and fly IFR, accept clearances into IMC, fly approaches to published minimums, operate in Class A airspace, and depart in low IFR weather (aircraft/personal minimums permitting).
Under §61.3(e), when is an instrument rating required even in clear air?
Any time you act as PIC under IFR — filing/flying IFR on a severe-clear day still requires the rating.
State the 6 HIT mnemonic (§61.57(c)).
Within the preceding 6 calendar months: 6 instrument approaches, Holding procedures and tasks, Intercepting and tracking courses using navigational electronic systems.
What does 'appropriate category' mean for instrument currency?
Airplane, rotorcraft, powered-lift, or airship. Approaches in a C172 count toward Baron currency, but not a helicopter. Class and type don't matter.
Does a practice ILS flown VMC with no view-limiting device count?
No — tasks must be in actual or simulated instrument conditions (hood/foggles with a safety pilot, real IMC, or an approved device).
Per the Levy/Hicks interpretations, how much of an approach must be in actual/simulated conditions?
You must be in actual or simulated conditions to the final approach fix, and fly the approach to MDA/DA, continuing to the MAP or a landing.
What is the 6-month grace period?
Months 6–12 after currency lapses: you may regain 6 HIT only in actual or simulated IMC with a safety pilot, or in an approved device — you may not file IFR into clouds to get current.
When is an IPC required?
After 12 calendar months have passed since you were last instrument current (§61.57(d)).
Who may administer an IPC?
A CFII, an FAA examiner, or an authorized check airman; it is logged and endorsed.
What does an IPC cover?
Instrument ACS areas: preflight, ATC clearances, holding, at least three different kinds of approaches using navigation systems, circling, missed approach, and partial-panel/unusual attitude recovery.
Last logged approach August 12, 2024 — key dates?
Current through February 28, 2025; grace March 1–August 31, 2025; IPC required September 1, 2025.
Under §61.51(g), when may you log instrument time?
Only when you operate the aircraft solely by reference to instruments, in actual or simulated instrument conditions.
