The Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA) knowledge test covers flying in the clouds: IFR regulations and currency, weather and icing, IFR flight planning and alternates, instruments and equipment checks, ATC clearances and holding, attitude instrument flying, navigation systems, instrument approaches and emergencies such as lost communications.
Exam format at a glance
| Format | 60 multiple-choice questions in 2.5 hours, at an FAA airman knowledge testing center. |
| Cost | Testing fees are set by the testing center — check current pricing when you schedule. |
| Scoring | The passing score is 70 percent. Practice scores here use the same 70% pass line. |
| Validity | A passed knowledge test must be followed by the practical test within 24 calendar months (14 CFR 61.39). |
Who this exam is for
- Private pilots training for the instrument rating
- Instrument students preparing for the knowledge test before the checkride
- Instrument-rated pilots refreshing IFR rules and procedures
How to actually study for it
- Know IFR currency, alternate requirements (1-2-3 rule, 600-2 / 800-2) and IFR fuel reserves cold.
- Practice holding entries and the lost-communication route and altitude rules.
- Learn equipment checks: VOR (30 days, ±4° VOT), altimeter and static system (24 months).
- Study icing, thunderstorms and wind shear — weather is a large part of the test.
Where to go next
Start with the free 10-question diagnostic to see where you actually stand, or go straight to the one-page Instrument Rating cheat sheet. The full Instrument Rating practice exam covers every domain at the real exam's weighting, with every answer explained.