There are specific criteria that must be met in order to be eligible for an instrument rating.
Obtaining an instrument rating requires dedication and effort, but the payoff is tremendous. As an instrument-rated pilot, it is much more likely that you will be able to complete a planned flight because weather conditions are less of a factor. There are specific criteria that must be met in order to be eligible for an instrument rating. The FAA details them in CFR §61.65, but here’s the shorter version: