100+ Free FAA IGI Practice Questions

The IGI is one of three ground instructor certificates issued under 14 CFR Part 61 Subpart I. It specifically authorizes holders to provide ground training for the instrument rating and to endorse students for the instrument rating knowledge test and practical test ground portions. Unlike the Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI), which covers all pilot certificates except the instrument rating, the IGI is dedicated to instrument knowledge. Many instructors hold both AGI and IGI for comprehensive authority.

The three ratings differ by scope. The Basic Ground Instructor (BGI) covers sport, recreational, and private pilot ground training only. The Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI) adds commercial, ATP, and all pilot certificates EXCEPT the instrument rating. The Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) covers ONLY the instrument rating ground training. AGI and IGI are complementary — instructors often hold both (AGI + IGI) to teach any pilot certificate or rating.

The IGI knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions with a 2-hour time limit and a 70% passing score (35 of 50 correct). It is administered at FAA-authorized PSI testing centers for a $175 fee. You must also pass the 50-question Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI) knowledge test unless you hold a current teacher's certificate or are employed as a college or university instructor per 14 CFR 61.213(b).

No. Unlike flight instructor certificates, the IGI has no pilot certificate, flight experience, or medical certificate requirement. You must be at least 18 years old, able to read/write/speak/understand English, and pass both the FOI and IGI knowledge tests (the FOI may be waived). This makes IGI one of the most accessible FAA certificates for aviation educators, former military instructors, and dispatchers.

Per 14 CFR 61.215(d), an Instrument Ground Instructor may provide ground training in the aeronautical knowledge areas for the issuance of an instrument rating, endorse applicants for the instrument rating knowledge test, and endorse the ground training portions required for the instrument rating practical test. An IGI cannot endorse applicants for flight proficiency — that requires a CFII (flight instructor with instrument rating).

The IGI knowledge test costs $175, paid to PSI at the testing center. For initial IGI certification you typically need two tests: the FOI ($175) and the IGI ($175), totaling $350. If you already hold a flight or ground instructor certificate, the FOI is waived. Retakes cost $175 each after receiving additional instruction and an endorsement from an authorized instructor.

The certificate itself does not expire. However, per 14 CFR 61.217, you may not exercise IGI privileges unless you can show qualifying activity within the preceding 12 calendar months. Qualifying activities include giving ground or flight instruction, completing an approved flight instructor refresher course (FIRC), or receiving an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying your knowledge is current. Knowledge test results remain valid 24 months.

Holding AGI + IGI gives an instructor maximum ground-training authority: AGI covers all pilot certificates except the instrument rating, and IGI covers the instrument rating. Together they authorize ground instruction for every certificate and rating in 14 CFR Part 61. This is especially valuable for part-time instructors, Part 141 school employees, and anyone teaching both primary and instrument students. Each test requires only an additional $175 and focused study.