There are two United States Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) which define the requirements for obtaining a US pilot certificate. FAR 61.75 addresses the transfer of a foreign pilot certificate to a US certificate; FAR 61.77 specifies the privileges and restrictions for a special purpose pilot certificate.

Under FAR 61.75, the privileges of a private pilot certificate issued by an ICAO member may be transferred directly to a US private pilot certificate.

A commercial, senior commercial or airline transport pilot certificate or the equivalent will be accepted for the issuance of a US commercial certificate with private pilot privileges.

Aircraft ratings will automatically be transferred to the US certificate.

However, to transfer an instrument rating, the pilot must have passed a written knowledge test on related regulations and procedures within 24 months preceding his application.

Certificate Transfer Procedures

In order to obtain a US pilot's certificate, a pilot must visit an FAA International Field Office (outside the US) or a Flight Standards District Office (within the US).

The applicant will be required to present his logbook, foreign pilot certificate and medical certificate. An application form must be completed during the visit. A valid reason must be offered as to why the individual wishes to fly US registered aircraft while visiting the US. If the application is approved, a temporary certificate valid for 120 days will be issued and a permanent certificate mailed to the applicant later at no charge.

Federal Communications Commission License

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires aliens who wish to operate aircraft radios to hold a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.

Application for the permit may be made by requesting Form 755 from:

Flying in the US

Once a foreign pilot has his US certificate in hand, he must meet the currency and recency of experience requirements stated in FAR 61 before flying a US registered aircraft.

This will consist of taking a Flight Review.