What is the Instrument Proficiency Check?
Understanding Instrument Proficiency Checks (IPCs)
Staying sharp on your instrument flying skills is crucial—not only for safety, but also to stay compliant with FAA regulations. If you're an instrument-rated pilot who hasn't flown in IMC for a while, or if you're unsure whether you're still current under FAR 61.57, you might need an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC). Here's what you need to know.
What is an IPC?
An Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) is a flight review specifically focused on instrument flying skills. It is required when a pilot is no longer current to act as Pilot in Command (PIC) under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
Under FAR 61.57(d), if a pilot has not logged the required instrument experience within the preceding 6 calendar months, and then also fails to meet the requirements within a 6-month grace period, they must complete an IPC before flying IFR again.
When is an IPC Required?
To remain current for IFR flight, a pilot must, within the previous 6 calendar months, have logged:
6 instrument approaches, and
Holding procedures, and
Intercepting and tracking courses using navigation systems
If those aren't met, the pilot enters a 6-month window to regain currency using a safety pilot, simulator, or flight instructor. Once that window closes, only an IPC can restore IFR privileges.
Example:
You last met your instrument currency in January.
You have until the end of July to log the required tasks.
If you don't, as of August 1st, you must complete an IPC.
What Does an IPC Involve?
An IPC is not just a check ride or test—it's a proficiency-based evaluation. The content and scope are outlined in FAA Instrument Rating ACS (Airman Certification Standards) and Advisory Circular 61-98D. An IPC typically includes:
Basic attitude instrument flying
Recovery from unusual attitudes
Intercepting and tracking using NAVAIDs
Holding procedures
Approaches (precision and non-precision)
Missed approaches
Circling approaches (if applicable)
An IPC must be conducted by an authorized instructor (CFII), Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), or FAA inspector. It can be done in an aircraft or an approved flight simulator or flight training device (FTD), depending on the scenario.
Tips to Prepare for an IPC
Review Instrument Procedures
Brush up on approach plates, enroute charts, and IFR regulations. Know how to brief an approach and work through a full flight plan in the IFR system.Use a Simulator First
Practicing in a simulator can help regain comfort with procedures and reduce cost before flying with a CFII. (Beyond Aviation has one)Focus on Weak Areas
Work with your instructor to identify and address any areas of rust, such as holding entries or partial-panel flying.Stay Proficient, Not Just Current
Don’t wait until you're out of currency to fly on instruments. Regular simulator work or flying with a safety pilot can help keep your skills sharp.
Logging an IPC
Once completed, the instructor will make a logbook endorsement that looks like:
“I certify that [Pilot's Name] has satisfactorily completed an instrument proficiency check in accordance with §61.57(d).”
There is no expiration date for an IPC—it simply brings you current at that moment. From that date forward, you must log the required 6 approaches, holdings, etc., every 6 months to remain current.
Final Thoughts
Similar to the Flight Review, we can refer to AC 61-98D for guidance on structuring an IPC. Similar to the Flight Review, your instructor should have an understanding of your needs, including the type of flying you currently do and would like to do. The plan of action developed by your instructor should include, among other things, scenarios based on what you fly and where you fly. The plan of action should also include areas where you feel weak or uncomfortable.
An effective IPC should consist of a ground, simulator, and flight segment to be effective. Airman Decision-Making skills should be discussed and reinforced throughout the IPC. On the ground, your instructor should begin with a review of what is necessary for you to be legal to fly IFR and what is required for the aircraft to be able to be flown into IMC. The review will then move onto route planning, weather analysis, charts, TPP’s, flight planning and clearances. A discussion and review of Basic Attitude Instrument Flying, Partial Panel, Procedure Turns, Segments of the Approach, Non-Precision and Precision Approaches, Holds, and Arc’s will follow. The simulator session should focus on a review of these basic skills, starting with Basic Attitude Instrument Flying.
The flight portion should consist of a series of scenarios. Your instructor should have you file a flight plan and practice picking up the clearance. After departure, you will intercept and track your initial course and during your flight, your instructor should present a partial panel, deviation, and emergency scenarios. Proper planning can enable you to practice holding and arcs in addition to shooting various approaches. To get the most out of your IPC, it is strongly recommended that you do some self-study and preparation before attending.
An excellent place to start is AC 61-98D, which will give you an idea of the elements that your instructor will be using. Next will be the instrument flight manual that you used for your training. The FAA also has a collection of manuals and materials on its website that can be helpful to you as well. Instrument flying is perishable, and flying IFR without currency is both illegal and unsafe. An IPC is more than just a regulatory requirement—it’s an opportunity to sharpen skills, correct bad habits, and build confidence. Whether you're coming back from a break or just want a safety-focused check-up, an IPC can be a valuable part of your aviation journey.