Who is Qualified to Sign Off Instrument 5 Hour Commercial Training?

Oct 05, 2025

If you’re working toward your Commercial Helicopter rating, you already know about the 5-hour instrument training requirement. Yesterday, we talked about the confusion pilots face when logging the hours (actual instrument vs. total flight time). Today, let’s tackle the next big question:

Who is actually qualified to sign off those 5 hours?


 

 


The Confusion

This comes up in almost every check-ride prep we do in the Final Approach Course.

  • Some pilots believe it has to be a CFII (Instrument Instructor).

  • Others think a Private Pilot with a safety pilot can count.

  • And some assume any instructor, regardless of ratings, can do it.

The truth? That confusion has tripped up more than a few pilots when the examiner opens the logbook.


The Rule

Here’s what matters:

  • The 5 hours of instrument training for your Commercial helicopter rating must be given by a CFI or CFII.

  • A safety pilot does not qualify — that may build your experience, but it will not satisfy the FAA requirement.

  • And it’s not just about hours logged, it’s about proper endorsements and signatures.

So yes, a CFI (without the Instrument Instructor add-on) can legally sign it. A CFII can also do it. But a safety pilot alone? Not valid.


Why It Matters

Examiners check this every time. If your logbook isn’t squared away, your check-ride can be stopped before it even begins. We’ve seen pilots arrive with beautiful flying skills but improper logbook sign-offs — and that can end the ride before the blades ever turn.

This is exactly why we triple-check logbooks during the Final Approach Course. The flying matters, but the paperwork can end you just as fast.


 

 


FAC Spotlight

In 30 months of Final Approach Courses, at least three different pilots showed up thinking their safety pilot hours would satisfy the commercial instrument requirement. All three had to fix their logbooks before an examiner would even consider moving forward.

Don’t make their mistake — get it right the first time.


The Final Approach Course Advantage

When you book a Final Approach Course, you’re not just training for maneuvers. You’re:

  • Getting logbooks reviewed line-by-line.

  • Matching your hours directly against ACS requirements.

  • Finishing strong with an examiner who’s worked with us for 25+ years.

If you’re ready to finally finish your rating, call Heather at (574) 767-1797 or visit FinalApproachCourse.com. We have October openings right now.


Free Resources


Takeaway

The 5-hour instrument requirement for Commercial helicopter isn’t optional, and it isn’t confusing once you know the rule.

A CFI or CFII can sign it. A safety pilot cannot. Get it right in your logbook and you won’t get tripped up on check-ride day.