14 CFR 61.3 — Requirement for Certificates, Ratings, and Authorizations
Requires pilots to carry a valid pilot certificate and photo ID, and a valid medical certificate while acting as PIC or required flight crewmember.
Regulation Text
No person may serve as a required pilot flight crewmember of a civil aircraft of the United States, unless that person has in their physical possession or readily accessible in the aircraft: (1) A valid pilot certificate or special purpose pilot authorization; (2) A photo identification as specified; (3) A valid medical certificate, if required.
Note: This is an excerpt. Refer to the full regulation in eCFR for the complete text.
Plain-English Explanation
You must always have your pilot certificate, a photo ID, and your medical certificate with you (or readily accessible in the aircraft) when flying as a required crew member. This is one of the most fundamental rules in aviation — fly without your documents and you are in violation. Think of it like driving without your license, but with steeper consequences.
Tested On These Exams
Share this with a fellow pilot
Related Regulations
14 CFR 61.23 — Medical Certificates: Requirement and Duration
Specifies which class of medical certificate is required for each type of operation and how long each class remains valid.
§61.5614 CFR 61.56 — Flight Review
Requires a flight review every 24 calendar months to act as PIC. Must include a minimum of 1 hour ground and 1 hour flight training.
§91.314 CFR 91.3 — Responsibility and Authority of the Pilot in Command
The PIC is directly responsible for and is the final authority as to the operation of the aircraft. In an emergency, the PIC may deviate from any rule to the extent required.
Pass your FAA exam in 30 days
Pilot Exam Crash Course
This regulation will be on your exam. Get 1,000+ practice questions with instant explanations. 94% of students pass on their first attempt.
3 days FREE, then $7.49/mo. Cancel anytime. 2,200+ questions.
Or subscribe for full access
All Exams, All Regulations — $7.49/mo
1,000+ questions covering all FARs. Cancel after you pass.
Cancel anytime. No commitment.