Instrument Rating Certification

The Instrument Rating (IR) is one of the most valuable additions a pilot can earn. It allows you to fly in a wider range of weather conditions, rely on instruments instead of outside visual references, and opens the door to more advanced certificates and professional flying opportunities. At Atlas Aviation in Tampa, our structured instrument training program builds the confidence and skills you need to become a safer, more capable pilot.

Prerequisites

To begin training for an Instrument Rating, you must:

  • Hold at least a Private Pilot Certificate.

  • Hold a current 3rd Class (or higher) FAA Medical Certificate.

  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.

Training Hours

FAA minimums for the Instrument Rating (under Part 61) are:

  • 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument time

    • 15 hours must be with a Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII)

    • Up to 20 hours may be in an FAA-approved simulator

  • 50 hours of cross-country PIC time

  • A cross-country flight under IFR of at least 250 NM with approaches at 3 different airports

👉 Average training time: Most students complete 45–55 hours of instrument time to be fully proficient.

Costs

Costs vary based on whether you already meet the cross-country PIC requirement. Typical breakdown:

  • Aircraft rental (IFR-equipped Cessna or Cirrus): $XXX/hour wet

  • Instructor time (CFII): $XXX/hour

  • Simulator time (if used): $XXX/hour

  • Ground school (online or classroom): $XXX

  • Books, charts, and materials: approx. $400

  • FAA written exam fee: $175

  • FAA checkride (practical exam) fee: $600–$800 (paid to examiner)

👉 Estimated total cost: $10,000 – $13,000, depending on training pace, aircraft used, and simulator time.

Examinations

To earn your Instrument Rating, you must pass:

  1. FAA Knowledge Test

    • 60 multiple-choice questions

    • Focuses on instrument procedures, IFR regulations, charts, approach plates, weather, and systems

    • Minimum passing score: 70%

  2. Practical Test (Checkride) with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)

    • Oral exam: ~2 hours covering IFR flight planning, charts, weather, and approach procedures

    • Flight test: 1.5–2.0 hours under simulated instrument conditions (hood or foggles), demonstrating approaches, holds, missed approaches, and IFR procedures

Benefits of an Instrument Rating

  • Fly Safely in More Conditions – Operate in clouds, low visibility, and controlled airspace under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).

  • Greater Travel Flexibility – Weather delays are reduced, making cross-country trips more reliable.

  • Improved Skills & Safety – Enhanced precision and situational awareness in all flying.

  • Professional Pathway – Required for the Commercial Pilot Certificate, ATP, and most aviation careers.

  • Insurance & Resale Value – Owning an aircraft with an instrument rating can lower insurance costs and increase resale value.