Quick answer
The CFII oral is about teaching, not just knowing. Be ready to teach the instrument scan, holding entries, approach and missed approach rules, partial panel, instrument currency and IPCs, and student endorsements, and back each answer with 14 CFR, the AIM, and the ACS.
The instrument instructor practical test follows the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS) and the related flight instructor standards. You will be asked to explain instrument procedures the way you would to a student. These are the topics our CFIs focus on most in CFII mock orals.
1. How do you teach the instrument scan and common scan errors?
Explain the radial (hub-and-spoke) scan around the attitude indicator, then the control and performance method. Be ready to name and correct the classic errors: fixation, omission, and emphasis. Describe how you would diagnose each one from what your student is doing in the airplane.
2. What are the instrument currency requirements, and what is an IPC?
Under 14 CFR 61.57(c), a pilot needs six instrument approaches, holding procedures and tasks, and intercepting and tracking courses within the preceding 6 calendar months. If that window lapses beyond another 6 months, an instrument proficiency check (IPC) is required, using the tasks in the Instrument Rating ACS. Know who can give an IPC and how you would plan one.
3. How do you teach holding pattern entries?
Teach direct, teardrop, and parallel entries with a simple visualization your student can use in the cockpit, then cover timing, wind correction, and speed limits under the AIM. Expect to show how you would correct a student who picks the wrong entry.
4. How do you explain approach clearances and missed approach criteria?
Walk through when a pilot may descend on a published segment, what 'cleared for the approach' allows, and the requirements to continue below DA or MDA under 14 CFR 91.175. Then explain when and how to execute the missed approach, including at the missed approach point and during a circling maneuver.
5. How do you teach partial panel and unusual attitude recovery?
Describe how to recognize a failed attitude or heading indicator, which instruments to cross-check, and the recovery steps for nose-high and nose-low attitudes. Show how you would set up these scenarios safely and debrief them.
6. What endorsements will you give instrument students?
Know the instrument-related endorsements in AC 61-65 (current revision), including the knowledge test endorsement and the practical test endorsement, and the aeronautical experience required by 14 CFR 61.65. Our Endorsement Engine can help you find the right wording.
7. How do you use scenario-based training for IFR students?
Build a realistic flight scenario that ties weather, equipment, and ATC decisions together, then let the student make the calls. Explain how you would grade the scenario, what learner-centered grading means, and how you would debrief risk management decisions.
How to practice for the CFII oral
Teaching out loud is a different skill from flying the procedure. A CFII mock oral with an experienced CFI lets you practice explaining each topic and get feedback on your teaching. Refresh your own knowledge with instrument rating prep, look up student endorsements in the Endorsement Engine, and drill scenarios any time with our AI CFI study tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you teach the instrument scan and common scan errors?+
Explain the radial (hub-and-spoke) scan around the attitude indicator, then the control and performance method. Be ready to name and correct the classic errors: fixation, omission, and emphasis. Describe how you would diagnose each one from what your student is doing in the airplane.
What are the instrument currency requirements, and what is an IPC?+
Under 14 CFR 61.57(c), a pilot needs six instrument approaches, holding procedures and tasks, and intercepting and tracking courses within the preceding 6 calendar months. If that window lapses beyond another 6 months, an instrument proficiency check (IPC) is required, using the tasks in the Instrument Rating ACS. Know who can give an IPC and how you would plan one.
How do you teach holding pattern entries?+
Teach direct, teardrop, and parallel entries with a simple visualization your student can use in the cockpit, then cover timing, wind correction, and speed limits under the AIM. Expect to show how you would correct a student who picks the wrong entry.
How do you explain approach clearances and missed approach criteria?+
Walk through when a pilot may descend on a published segment, what 'cleared for the approach' allows, and the requirements to continue below DA or MDA under 14 CFR 91.175. Then explain when and how to execute the missed approach, including at the missed approach point and during a circling maneuver.
Keep Reading
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ACS structure for each practical test, including the instrument instructor rating.
Top 10 Private Pilot Oral Exam Questions
Questions your future students will face, with ACS-aligned answers.
What You Need for Your Checkride
Documents, endorsements, and aeronautical experience to bring on test day.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes and general guidance. Always refer to current FAA regulations, the applicable Airman Certification Standards (ACS), and your CFI for the most up-to-date requirements specific to your certificate or rating.