There is no such thing as a type rating for something like a C172. You may have a type checkout - in fact, most clubs or insurance companies would insist on it - but there's no legal requirement to do so.
Yeah, sorry that's what I meant.
Even thought there is no legal requirement (unlike commercial flying where a type rating is required), I would still "get checked-out" in the type of aircraft I was going to fly.
I guess most people would - especially beginners.