If, however, you don't do these three things every six months, eventually you'll probably need a Instrument Proficiency Check.

What's a IPC?

An IPC is very similar to a Biennial Flight Review. Simply put, the authorized instructor (a CFII rated to teach in the approapriate category/class of aircraft) will put you through your paces, and verify that you retain the necessary skills to safely fly under Instrument Flight Rules. However, it's not a checkride.

If you are having trouble with a concept, or you just want to hone your skills, there is nothing wrong with the instructor stepping in and providing some instruction. After all, if you're not safe, the goal is to make you safe. (And, if you are safe, the goal is to make you safer.)

Can I get an IPC if it's not required?

Unless you're one of them, you'd be amazed to see how many instrument pilots get IPC's on a regular basis. Even though these pilots fly IFR all the time, they're still trying to become better pilots, and catch those bad habits early.

What does an IPC entail?

Generally speaking, and IPC involves a bit of ground, reviewing the finer points of Instrument Flying, and briefing the flight. Then, once you're airborne, you'll run through the same manuevers that you did on your checkride, such as stalls, steep turns, holds, course interception and tracking, a variety of approaches and the occasional simulated emergency (i.e. partial panel and such).

What's the best time to do an IPC?

Winter, for two reasons. First, unless your airplane is equipped for flight into known icing, you probably don't get much actual instrument time in Maine in the winter, so your skills are going to get a bit rusty. Secondly, it gets dark early during the winter, and an IPC at night is the best simulation of actual (and stressful) instrument flying.