FAA License Conversion Guide for Foreign Pilots

Asst.Prof.Capt.Dr. Gema Goeyardi,MCFI,ATP
16 hours ago
4 min read

What “FAA License Conversion” Actually Means

When pilots search FAA license conversion, they may mean one of three things:

Option 1: FAA certificate issued on the basis of a foreign license (61.75)

This is the most common path for private pilots who want FAA privileges based on their home country license.

It is often called a “piggyback” certificate, but the legal term is a certificate issued on the basis of a foreign pilot license under 14 CFR 61.75. faa.gov

Option 2: FAA certificate conversion under a specific agreement

Some conversions follow FAA Advisory Circular guidance when a formal pathway exists, such as certain Canada to FAA processes. faa.gov

Option 3: Getting a standalone FAA certificate

This is not “conversion” in the strict sense. It means meeting all FAA requirements directly, with FAA training and testing.

The Step That Makes or Breaks Everything

FAA Foreign License Verification

Before the FAA issues a 61.75 certificate or other authorization based on a foreign license, the FAA must verify that your foreign license and medical are valid and current through your country’s aviation authority. faa.gov

This is where most pilots lose weeks or months.

Why it matters: If your Civil Aviation Authority delays responses, the FAA cannot move forward. It does not matter how prepared you are.

FAA License Conversion Step by Step

Here is the cleanest “no drama” workflow that I recommend.

Step 1: Confirm your foreign license and medical are valid

Valid and not expired
Ratings are current
Your personal details match exactly across documents

If you recently renewed your license, wait until your CAA records show the update.

Step 2: Submit your foreign license verification request

The FAA requires verification from your CAA for certificates issued on the basis of a foreign license. faa.gov

Pilot Tip: Use the same spelling and format as your passport, including middle names if applicable. Mismatched identity info is a silent killer.

Step 3: Choose where you will complete the FAA issuance

Typically you will do the final issuance with:

A Flight Standards District Office
A Designated Pilot Examiner
A qualified FAA representative

Your location and timeline will drive this choice.

Step 4: Prepare your application and documentation

Most pilots will use IACRA or FAA paperwork depending on the process.

Bring:

Passport
Foreign pilot license
Foreign medical certificate
Verification letter or confirmation
Logbook proof if required
US address contact info if needed

Step 5: Expect limitations

A 61.75 certificate often carries limitations tied to your foreign license.

Example:

If your foreign license privileges are limited, your FAA privileges mirror those limitations.

Common Mistakes That Delay FAA License Conversion

Mistake 1: Waiting too late to request verification

Some CAAs respond fast. Some do not. Build margin.

Mistake 2: Name mismatch across documents

One letter difference can force rework.

Mistake 3: Assuming conversion means instrument privileges

A 61.75 certificate does not automatically grant instrument privileges unless your foreign license and conditions support it.

Mistake 4: Showing up unprepared to the appointment

If you arrive without all documents, you may lose the slot and wait weeks.

Pilot Insight (Real World Guidance)

As an instructor, here is the pattern I see:

The smoothest conversion pilots do three things:

They submit verification early
They keep document data identical
They treat the FSDO or DPE appointment like a checkride oral Meaning, they show up fully briefed and organized

If you do those, you will feel like the process is easy.

If you do not, it becomes a frustrating paperwork maze.

Action Checklist (Use This Before Your Appointment)

FAA License Conversion Readiness Checklist

Use this checklist like a preflight:

Identity and documents

Passport name matches license name exactly
Foreign license is current
Foreign medical is current
Copies and originals ready

Verification

FAA foreign license verification request submitted
Confirmation saved
Follow up plan if CAA delays

Issuance appointment

FSDO or DPE scheduled
Transportation and arrival plan
All required forms completed

Operational planning

Understand limitations on your expected FAA certificate
Plan next steps if you want a standalone FAA PPL or IFR

FAQ (SEO Style Questions)

1) How long does FAA license conversion take?

It depends heavily on your CAA verification response time and appointment availability. The verification step is usually the longest lead item. faa.gov

2) What is FAA foreign license verification?

It is the FAA process that requests your CAA to confirm your license and medical are valid and current before FAA issuance. faa.gov

3) Can I convert my ICAO license to FAA without training?

If you are pursuing a 61.75 certificate, you are not repeating full FAA training, but you must meet the verification and issuance requirements. faa.gov

4) Is a 61.75 certificate the same as an FAA PPL?

Not exactly. It is an FAA certificate issued on the basis of your foreign license, with privileges tied to it.

5) Can I add an instrument rating after conversion?

Yes, but it will require meeting FAA instrument rating requirements through training and testing.

6) Do I need a US medical for a 61.75 certificate?

Not always. The FAA verification includes your foreign medical, but your operating privileges may depend on the scenario. Follow the FAA guidance closely. faa.gov

Conclusion and Community CTA

FAA license conversion is absolutely doable, and many international pilots complete it smoothly every month. The secret is respecting the admin side like you respect a checklist.

If you are currently converting your license, drop a comment and tell the IFPA community: