What must a licensed private pilot have to be legally able to fly?

For a licensed private pilot to legally operate an aircraft, holding a current medical certificate is essential. This certificate serves as proof that the pilot meets the necessary medical standards established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The medical evaluation assesses various health aspects such as vision, hearing, and overall physical and mental fitness to ensure that pilots can operate aircraft safely without medical conditions that may impair their performance.

While having a valid driver’s license may be a standard identification requirement, it does not fulfill the specific regulatory requirements for flying an aircraft. Similarly, flight instructor endorsements and recent flight hours, while important for maintaining qualifications and ensuring proficiency, are not legally mandated requirements for the act of flying as a private pilot. The medical certificate is, therefore, the critical document that ensures the pilot is fit to fly.