FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

When are commercial pilots required to have a valid pilot certificate accessible?

1. During training flights only

2. When acting as pilot in command

3. Only during flight tests

4. In all cases except solo flights

The correct answer is: When acting as pilot in command

A commercial pilot is required to hold and have immediate access to a valid pilot certificate whenever they are acting as pilot in command. This is a crucial safety and regulatory requirement set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The pilot in command is responsible for the operation and safety of the flight, and having the appropriate certification on hand ensures compliance with aviation regulations. This requirement underscores the importance of accountability and professionalism within the aviation industry. If the pilot in command does not have their certificate readily available, it could lead to violations of regulations and compromise safety. Other scenarios, such as during training flights, flight tests, or solo flights, may impose varying regulations or accessibility requirements on certificates, but the definitive rule remains that when operating as pilot in command, the certificate must be available. This stipulation is fundamental to maintaining the standards required for commercial flight operations.