When must an IR be revalidated within the 12-month period?

• A. In the last 3 months of the 12-month period
• B. Any time within the 12-month period
• C. Only after 12 months expire
• D. Only within the first 6 months

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the timing window for revalidating an Instrument Rating. The rules require that the revalidation be completed within the final portion of the current 12-month currency period—the last three months. This window keeps currency practical: you’re tested while your IFR skills are still fresh, and when you pass, the new 12-month validity starts from the date of revalidation, giving a clean, predictable cycle.

Revalidating earlier would push the new expiry date forward too soon relative to your current window, and waiting beyond the last three months risks losing IFR privileges before you can revalidate. So the only acceptable window is the final three months of the 12-month period.