Instrument Rating
Commercial Certificate
Earning a commercial pilot certificate (CPL) is a significant step for anyone aspiring to fly professionally. It allows you to be compensated, opening up a range of career opportunities in aviation. This also enhances your skills and knowledge, ensuring you are well-prepared for the responsibilities of a commercial pilot. Ultimately, obtaining a commercial pilot certificate can be a rewarding investment in your future in the aviation industry.
Eligibility Requirements
To earn your instrument rating, you must meet the following criteria:
Hold a PPL
Must be a private pilot
Must be English Proficient
Must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language
Obtain a 3rd class medical certificate
A valid Second-Class Medical Certificate is required to exercise commercial privileges.
Minimum Flight Requirements
To qualify for a instrument rating, you must complete the minimum requirements of:
250 hours of flight time, 100 hours of which must be in powered aircraft, and 50 must be in airplanes.
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100 hours of pilot-in-command time, 50 of which must be in airplanes.
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50 hours of cross-country time, 10 of which must be in an airplane.
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20 hours of training, including 10 of instrument, 10 of complex or TAA, and a smattering of cross-country and practical test preparation.
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10 hours of solo training, including a smattering of cross-country and night.​
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Reference 14 CFR §61.65 for more details on flight time requirements.
Exams
The last step in earning any certificate is taking the written and checkride.
Written Knowledge Test
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You need an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that you are prepared for the written test.
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You must pass the knowledge test within the preceding 24 calendar months of the checkride.
Checkride!
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Oral Exam: The examiner tests your knowledge of regulations, aircraft systems, and safety.
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Practical Test: Demonstrate takeoffs, landings, maneuvers, and emergency procedures.
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You also need endorsements certifying your flight proficiency and that you are ready for the flight test.
Train with Excellence
Our Cirrus Standardized training program combines advanced instructional tools with scenario-based learning to help you develop the same high-level decision-making skills and flight proficiency found in top-tier professional pilot programs.​​
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Why Cirrus Standardized Training Stands Out
Our structured Cirrus training experience leverages interactive materials and real-world scenarios to build confident, capable pilots prepared for any flight environment.
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The Choice of the Best
Leading programs such as the U.S. Air Force Academy, University of North Dakota, Purdue University, and many major airlines begin their training in Cirrus aircraft.
When the best choose Cirrus, the path is clear—so should you.
