FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)Instrument RegulationsMedium
A pilot's instrument currency lapsed 8 months ago (beyond the 6-month grace period). Which of the following actions satisfies the requirement to regain instrument currency under 14 CFR 61.57(d)?
- AFlying 6 hours of actual instrument time solo as PIC in IMC
- BSuccessfully completing a flight review under 14 CFR 61.56
- CLogging 6 approaches, holding, and course tracking over the next 6 months with a safety pilot
- DCompleting an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) covering the tasks required by the ACS with an authorized instructor or examiner
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Completing an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) covering the tasks required by the ACS with an authorized instructor or examiner
Once the 6-month grace period following a lapse in currency has expired, 14 CFR 61.57(d) requires the pilot to complete an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) with an authorized instructor or examiner, covering the areas of operation specified in the Instrument Rating ACS.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Solo instrument flight time alone does not satisfy the IPC requirement.
- B. A flight review under 61.56 is a separate requirement unrelated to instrument currency.
- C. This describes maintaining currency before the grace period expires, not requalifying after it lapses.
Instrument Proficiency Check (61.57(d))
An IPC is required when a pilot's instrument currency has lapsed beyond the 6-month grace period; it must be given by an authorized instructor or examiner and cover the tasks specified in the Instrument Rating ACS.
- Required after currency lapses beyond 6+6 months
- Must be conducted by a CFII, examiner, or other authorized person
- Covers representative tasks from the Instrument Rating ACS
Memory trick: 'Lapse too long? Get an IPC gong.'