When Is the Best Time to Begin Training for an Instrument Rating?

Pilots don’t need to wait for winter to build an IFR foundation.

Meg Godlewski

Wednesday, July 08, 2026 at 01:00 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

IFR conditions at an airport [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Instead of a complete break, use the time to build the required 50 hours of cross-country PIC time, practicing with VFR flight following to get comfortable in controlled airspace.
Begin studying for the IFR knowledge test simultaneously, focusing on VOR/GPS navigation and integrating these systems into your flight planning.
While not mandatory for training, logging actual time in IFR conditions (avoiding icing) is highly recommended to gain practical experience for your instrument rating.

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Question: I just earned my private pilot certificate and I am debating on if I should roll right into training for the instrument rating or take a break? I am a little burned out on training and since fall and winter is when most of the instrument weather happens, does it make more sense to wait to train in actual IFR conditions?

Answer: While the purpose of the instrument rating is to give you the skills to fly in the clouds that would keep a VFR pilot on the ground, there is no rule that states you must log actual time in IFR conditions during training. I highly recommend it, however, as long as you stay away from icing conditions.