Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

What is needed to regain instrument currency after six months?

1. A Complete a full checkride with an examiner

2. B Fly with an instructor and complete the required tasks

3. C No action is needed, currency remains valid for one year

4. D Complete a specific number of supervised solo flights

The correct answer is: B Fly with an instructor and complete the required tasks

To regain instrument currency after it has lapsed for six months, a pilot must fly with an instructor who will provide the necessary training and evaluation of required tasks. This process ensures that the pilot is current with the latest standards and procedures needed for safe instrument flying. The instructor can guide the pilot through essential maneuvers and assess their proficiency in handling instrument approaches, navigation, and other critical skills required for instrument flight rules (IFR) operations. While a full checkride with an examiner may reestablish overall proficiency, it is not the immediate requirement for regaining currency after a lapse. Currency does not remain valid beyond a specified period without action. It's also worth noting that simply completing supervised solo flights does not cover the requirements set forth by the FAA for regaining instrument currency. Thus, working directly with an instructor is the clear path to demonstrating competence and regaining the necessary currency to operate under IFR conditions.