FAA Instrument Rating Airplane Written Knowledge Test Practice Test

150 questions available

Build your confidence for FAA Instrument Rating Airplane Written Knowledge Test. Practice the concepts, understand the answers, and strengthen your knowledge one question at a time.

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Certification exam
60 Exam questions
2 hours 30 minutes Time Limit
Your practice
150 Practice questions
2 hours 30 minutes Practice Time
Try 5 free questions
No account needed. A free account includes 20 questions for this exam.
The bar to clear 70 Published passing score for this certification.
Official objectives from FAA Pilot Certification
FAA Pilot Certification150 practice questions

Exam overview and details

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.

Sample Questions

Choose an answer and explore the explanation to see how practice works.

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?

Weather and In-Flight Weather

A pilot is applying the rule for alternate airport on an IFR flight plan. Which option is correct?

Holding Patterns and Departure Procedures

A pilot is applying the rule for obstacle departure procedures. Which option is correct?

Holding Patterns and Departure Procedures

During obstacle departure procedures, which action or statement is correct?

Career Opportunities & Salary

Median salary: $123,220– Commercial Pilots

Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 -- Commercial Pilots (SOC 53-2012), US national. Occupation median, not a certification salary. (2025)

Commercial Pilots

Exam insights and study advice

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).

What this exam covers

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)
Exam rules FAA-approved test supplements provided at testing center. Approved calculators and flight computers permitted. E6B flight computer (mechanical or electronic) allowed. No personal electronic devices. No personal notes or reference materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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