How do I convert my pilot license to an US FAA license- 5 Easy Steps

1. Determine what type of certifcate you will need.

   • Private Pilot Certificate (PPL): You can get a verification-based FAA Private Pilot Certificate that references your foreign license.

   • Commercial, Instrument, or ATP: Requires additional training and FAA testing.

2. Go to FAA’s Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application (IACRA) site: https://iacra.faa.gov

• Create an account and fill out Form 8060-71 for foreign license verification.

• You'll need:

• A valid foreign pilot license

• An English proficiency endorsement

• A valid medical certificate (from your country or FAA medical)

• Passport ID

• Contact info for the aviation authority that issued your license

  
  

• During the waiting period which can be 4-6 weeks The FAA will contact the Civil Authority to verify the detaisl provided by the applicant.

  
  

4. Receive the Letter of Verification-

   1. A copy of the verification letter is uploaded to the applicant's IACRA account. If you submitted the form to the FAA by mail (not the recommended method), they will mail or email you a copy, and provide a copy of the letter to the selected Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). The verification letter will be valid for a six month period unless the CAA specifies a shorter period or if the foreign license expires prior to the six month validation period.

      
      

5. Set the appointment and obtain a US address.

   1. Get in contact with a local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or a Designated Foreign Pilot Examiner (DPE) to get an appointment. Contact info can be found on this page. Generally there is a fee associated with using a DPE.

   2. 14 CFR part 3.303 requires all foreign certiifcate holders to obtain a U.S. based mailing address or designate an agent for service. This process can be completed through AeroServeAgents.com

      
      

6. Meet the examiner or inspector.

   1. Bring the following with you to your appointment

      1. two copies of your paper application or ensure a completed application in IACRA

      2. Valid government issued ID such as a passport

      3. Your current pilot license and log book

      4. a copy of your verification letter

      5. any other documents requested by the examiner

         
         

7. You will be issued a temorary certificate with restrictions based on your currect certificate. within 120 days and your hard copy will be sent to US address on file.

   
   

8. In order to exercise the privileges of your certificate within the United States you will need to complete a Biannual flight review which can be completed an inspector or examiner or CFI