IPC
Instrument Proficiency Check
A flight check that restores instrument currency for a pilot whose 6-month instrument experience has lapsed.
An Instrument Proficiency Check restores instrument currency under FAR 61.57(c) for a pilot who has not met the six-approach-plus-holding-and-tracking requirement within the preceding six calendar months.
The IPC is conducted by a CFII (or another authorized person per the regulation) and follows the tasks listed in the Instrument Rating ACS. It's not the same as a checkride — it's a proficiency check — but the scope is substantial.
An IPC is required even if the pilot's instrument rating has never lapsed. The rating is permanent (assuming the BFR is current); the currency is what allows actual instrument flight.
When it matters
Pilots who fly IFR less than six approaches per six months need to plan for an IPC. Schools and clubs that track instrument currency separately catch these gaps before a member tries to file IFR.
In Aloft360
Pilot currency tracking