Converting to an FAA license?

[Kiwi300]

Does anyone know what's involved in converting a NZ CAA licence to a U.S. FAA license?

I've been to the FAA web site but it appears to be of minimal help.

Thanks in advance, any info is much appreciated.

[randalrowles]

Does anyone know what's involved in converting a NZ CAA licence to a U.S. FAA license?

I've been to the FAA web site but it appears to be of minimal help.

Thanks in advance, any info is much appreciated.

 

To obatin the FAA PPL, you will need to complete a Foreign Pilot Verification form from the FAA. The form can be found at the following link:

 

http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/a...verify61-75.pdf

 

After completing the form and attaching ALL of the requested copies, fax the form to the FAA at US 405-954-9922 attn: Andrew. The FAA will then complete a verification of your NZ CAA pilot certificate. The process will take approx 4 - 6 weeks. On the form you are asked to name an FAA FSDO where you intend to make application. If you plan on coming to the US to complete this, list an FAA office in the area where you will be going. This list can be found at www.faa.gov if you clickthe top right button "quick find". Select "Flight Standards Service" and then "Flight Standard Distrct Offices". You will then just follow the directions.

 

Once the FAA contacts you that your NZ CAA pilot certificate is valid via a letter from them, you will then go to the FAA FSDO office you selected and pick up your US FAA PPL (MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FIRST!). The cerificate will be "Restricted" and limited to the same limitations of your NZ CAA certificate.

 

If you want to obtain the US FAA CPL, you would then begin the same process as everyone else. You would complete the FAA CPL knowledge exam and meet the FAR 61.129 requirements for the CPL certificate.

 

Please Note: You must maintain a copy of the verification letter from the FAA until you finally receive a US FAA pilot certificate that IS NOT restricted. If you complete the US FAA CPL, this will not have any restrictions.

 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to e-mail me at randy@palmbeachhelicopters.com

 

Take care,

 

Randy Rowles

FAA Pilot Examiner