How Long Does It Take to Get the CFII?

Pilot looks to expand job horizons with added qualification.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 09:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

What skills and knowledge do pilots master to obtain the CFII, and how long does it take? [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The CFI-Instrument (CFII) is presented as the easiest instructor rating to obtain as an add-on for an existing CFI, significantly improving job prospects at flight schools.
To become a CFII, instructors must be able to teach IFR approaches and possess an instructor-level knowledge of the IFR system and weather.
The process primarily involves converting existing instrument rating knowledge to instructional ability, culminating in a knowledge test (FII) and a practical check ride.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Question: I just got my CFI ticket, airplane, single-engine land, and I am having trouble finding a job because the flight schools prefer to hire instructors who also have the CFII. How long does it take to get the CFII? What do I have to know?

Answer: Of all the instructor ratings, the CFI-Instrument (CFII) is the easiest to get in part because it is an add-on if you already hold a CFI rating. To be an instrument instructor you need to be able to teach the approaches and have an instructor level of knowledge about the IFR system and weather.