What is one of the eligibility requirements to become an instrument pilot?

To be eligible for an instrument rating, an applicant must hold at least a private pilot certificate. This requirement ensures that the pilot has a foundational level of flying experience and knowledge before progressing to instrument flight rules (IFR) training, which involves flying in conditions where visibility is limited and reliance on instruments becomes critical. The private pilot training covers essential aeronautical knowledge, flight maneuvers, navigation, and regulations necessary for safe flight, providing a solid ground upon which to build advanced instrumentation skills. Other eligibility criteria, such as age and flight hours, exist, but being a private pilot is a fundamental prerequisite that establishes a pilot's competency and readiness for the additional responsibilities that come with flying solely by reference to instruments.