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Within how long before the instrument practical test must you have 3 hours of instrument flight training?

Within 2 calendar months.

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  1. 30 days
  2. 6 calendar months
  3. 2 calendar months ✔

Why: 61.65(d)(2)(i) requires 3 hours of instrument flight training from an authorized instructor in preparation for the test. That training has to be within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.

Huh, didn't know that: The recent training is meant to make sure your skills are fresh on test day.

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References

Answer: 2 calendar months. 61.65(d)(2)(i) requires 3 hours of instrument flight training from an authorized instructor in preparation for the test. That training has to be within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.

  1. 14 CFR 61.65 Instrument rating requirements www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/61.65
    within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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