When you pass your checkride you are presented with your Private Pilot Certificate.
The FAA minimum requirements for private pilots under part 141 regulations are 35 hours of flight time, 5 of these hours as solo pilot in command (PIC), 3 hours of simulated instrument, 3 hours of night training, as well as requirements for cross country distances and times lengths. Private pilots are required to hold a third class medical or higher. In addition to your flight training you will have to pass a written exam as well as your checkride. The checkride consists of an oral and practical exam. When you pass your checkride you are presented with your Private Pilot Certificate. Once this certificate is achieved, a private pilot will be able to act as PIC in a single-engine airplane under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).