Required Documents for Private Pilots

Before a private pilot can legally fly an airplane, there are several required documents

that must be carried in the aircraft. The first is a Pilot Certificate, such as a Private

Pilot License, which proves the pilot has met the training and certification requirements to

fly. The second is a valid Airman Medical Certificate, typically a Third-Class

Medical for private pilots, which confirms the pilot is medically fit to operate an

aircraft. The third required item is a government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s

license or passport, used to verify the pilot’s identity. Finally, the pilot must have

any required endorsements, which are written authorizations from a flight instructor for specific operations