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FAA Instrument Rating Airplane Written Knowledge Test Practice Test

150 questions available

The FAA Instrument Rating Airplane Written Knowledge Test is a critical certification milestone for pilots seeking to operate aircraft under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This comprehensive examination, designated as the FAA Knowledge Test, validates a candidate's mastery of the aeronautical knowledge required for safe, precise, and regulatory-compliant flight in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Successfully passing this test is a mandatory prerequisite for the practical flight exam and demonstrates to employers, insurers, and the aviation community a pilot's commitment to professional development and operational excellence. The certification signifies a pilot's ability to navigate complex airspace, execute precision approaches, manage aircraft systems in low-visibility environments, and make sound aeronautical decisions based on instrument interpretation and weather analysis. It is universally recognized as the gateway to professional flying careers, significantly expanding operational capabilities and employability.

Certification exam
60 Exam questions
2 hours 30 minutes Time Limit
Practice bank
150 Practice Questions
2 hours 30 minutes Practice Time
Start Practice
The bar to clear 70 Official passing score. Aim higher in practice before you book.
Official objectives from FAA Pilot Certification
FAA Pilot Certification150 practice questions147 answers with a checkable referenceBlueprint 1.0Bank updated 2026-07-22

Sample Questions

Try a few questions to see what the full exam is like.

147 of 150 answers carry a checkable reference.

Instrument Approaches and Procedures

During instrumentation for the controlling pilot, which action or statement is correct?

Weather and In-Flight Weather

A pilot is applying the rule for special VFR clearance and visibility. Which option is correct?

Instrument Flight Navigation (VOR, ILS, GPS)

During EFVS flare guidance for non-rotorcraft, which action or statement is correct?

IFR Regulations and Operations

During IFR cruising altitude in controlled airspace, which action or statement is correct?

Holding Patterns and Departure Procedures

A pilot is applying the rule for ATC instruction compliance. Which option is correct?

Why This Certification Opens Doors

Earning the FAA Instrument Rating is not merely an addition to a pilot's license; it is a fundamental career differentiator that transforms a VFR pilot into a true all-weather aviator. This certification is a non-negotiable requirement for virtually all professional pilot positions, including corporate, charter, and airline operations. It demonstrates to the industry a pilot's discipline, technical proficiency, and ability to manage risk in the most demanding flight environments. The knowledge validated by this written test forms the bedrock of IFR operations, directly impacting safety, operational flexibility, and career trajectory. In an industry where safety and precision are paramount, holding an Instrument Rating commands immediate respect and recognition, opening doors to advanced opportunities and establishing a foundation for future advanced certifications like the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP).

Exam Blueprint

01Aircraft Instruments and Avionics
02Holding Patterns and Departure Procedures
03IFR Regulations and Operations
04Instrument Approaches and Procedures
05Instrument Flight Navigation (VOR, ILS, GPS)
06Weather and In-Flight Weather

Exam Details IRA | $175 USD | 2 hours 30 minutes

Exam Code IRA
Vendor FAA Pilot Certification
Exam Cost $175 USD
Passing Score 70
Time Limit 2 hours 30 minutes
Exam questions 60
Question Types Multiple choice (100%), Scenario-based (70%)
Retake Policy 14-day waiting period required after a failed attempt. No limit on total number of attempts. Instructor endorsement or authorized sign-off required before retaking.
Exam Format Linear (computer-based at PSI/CATS testing centers)

Study Resources

FAA Airman Knowledge Test Question Bank
FAAFree
Official FAA test question database available for free download
View
FAA Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK)
FAAFree
Free PDF download from FAA; primary study resource for Private and Commercial
View
FAA Instrument Flying Handbook
FAAFree
Free PDF download from FAA; primary study resource for Instrument Rating
View

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the passing score for the FAA Instrument Rating Written Test, and how long is the result valid?

A passing score of 70% is required. Upon successful completion, the knowledge test report (often called the 'written test results') is valid for 24 calendar months. You must complete the practical flight test (checkride) within this period to add the instrument rating to your pilot certificate.

What are the primary reference materials I should use to study for this exam?

The FAA's official publications are essential: the *Instrument Procedures Handbook* (FAA-H-8083-16B), the *Instrument Flying Handbook* (FAA-H-8083-15B), and the current *Aeronautical Information Manual* (AIM). These should be supplemented with the FAA's instrument rating Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and the relevant Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), primarily Parts 61 and 91. Reputable commercial ground school programs and question banks are highly recommended to structure study and practice.

How many questions are on the test, and what is the format?

The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within a time limit of 2.5 hours. The questions are selected from the FAA's larger instrument rating question bank and cover all areas outlined in the ACS. The test is administered electronically at FAA-approved Computer Testing Centers (CTCs).

Does this certification expire, and what are the recent experience requirements to act as Pilot in Command under IFR?

The instrument rating itself does not expire; however, to act as Pilot in Command under IFR, you must meet specific recent flight experience requirements within the preceding 6 months. These include performing and logging at least six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and tracking and intercepting courses using navigation systems. You must also complete a minimum of 6 hours of instrument time, of which 3 hours can be in an approved simulator or training device.

Can I use a flight simulator or advanced training device (ATD) to prepare for the practical aspects, and does it count toward experience?

Absolutely. FAA-approved Aviation Training Devices (ATDs) and Flight Training Devices (FTDs) are invaluable tools for instrument training. Time in a Basic ATD (BATD) or Advanced ATD (AATD) can be logged as instrument time to meet the recent experience requirements (with limitations, e.g., a max of 3 hours in an ATD for the 6-month recency) and are excellent for practicing procedures, scans, and emergency scenarios in a risk-free environment.