Instrument Currency Requirements
FAA instrument recent-experience requirements are governed by current §61.57. Because details and permitted methods matter, verify the current regulatory text for your situation.
Use current §61.57
Section 61.57 contains the recent-instrument-experience framework. AC 61-98E provides FAA guidance on compliance and instrument proficiency checks. Check current required tasks, periods, conditions, devices, logging and exceptions.
When an IPC is relevant
An instrument proficiency check is part of the framework for restoring instrument privileges when applicable recent-experience pathways no longer suffice. Verify who may administer it, applicable standards and documentation in current FAA sources.
Separate currency from a practice plan
After determining legal instrument currency, separately review practical skills such as holding, approaches, missed approaches, navigation and workload management. Last Practiced supports personal practice planning; it is not a currency calculator.
Practice Targets are personal reminders. They do not establish regulatory currency, proficiency, legal eligibility to fly, or compliance with a specific operating requirement.
Authoritative references
- FAA AC 61-98E — Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check
- FAA AC 61-91K — WINGS—Pilot Proficiency Program
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — 14 CFR Part 61
Keep evidence and interpretation separate
Use records that meet applicable rules and verify how the current regulation applies. A personal reminder can point toward a date or skill but is not the regulatory record.
Related resources
This page is a general reference. Verify current regulations, aircraft documentation and operating requirements applicable to your flight.