What is the FAA instrument currency requirement (6 in 6)?

Per FAR 61.57(c), within the preceding 6 calendar months an instrument pilot must have logged 6 instrument approaches, holding procedures and tasks, and intercepting and tracking courses through navigation electronic systems in actual or simulated IMC. If those tasks lapse, you have an additional 6 months to regain currency before needing an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC).