FAA Ground School Practice Test

Who may request to see a pilot's certificate or medical certificate?

1. Only the Federal Aviation Administration

2. The pilot's flight instructor only

3. Any Federal, state, or local law enforcement officer

4. Only other pilots

The correct answer is: Any Federal, state, or local law enforcement officer

The correct answer is that any Federal, state, or local law enforcement officer may request to see a pilot's certificate or medical certificate. This is consistent with regulations that allow law enforcement officers to ascertain whether a pilot is complying with the necessary legal requirements for flying, especially in scenarios involving security or safety checks. In many situations, these authorities have a vested interest in ensuring that pilots are qualified and medically fit to operate aircraft. This can be particularly prevalent during routine traffic stops or investigations where the pilot’s credentials may need verification. The other options are not as comprehensive or applicable. For instance, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certainly has the authority to inspect pilot credentials but is not the only entity permitted to do so. Similarly, a flight instructor does not have the broad authority to request such documentation from pilots outside the normal instructional context. Other pilots do not possess the legal standing to demand to see another pilot's certificates, making it clear that law enforcement has the specific authority detailed in the correct answer.