FAA License Conversion for EASA Pilot Certificate Holders

Streamlined FAA pilot certificate validation and conversion for EASA-licensed pilots seeking FAA commercial or airline transport privileges.

FAA EASA License Conversion — Program Overview

Duration

21–30 Days

Training Hours

45–60 Hours (Bridge Focused)

This program is specifically designed for pilots holding EASA PPL, CPL, or ATPL licenses who require an FAA certificate for N-registered aircraft operations or US-based employment. We focus on the “Bridge” training—eliminating redundant EASA knowledge while mastering FAA-specific regulations, airspace, and weather services.

What This Conversion Program Includes

  • FAA Verification Support: Guidance through the FAA/EASA Verification of Authenticity process.
  • Regulatory Bridge Training: Focused study on FAA Part 61, 91, and 121/135 differences.
  • Airspace & Communications: Transitioning from EASA/ICAO standards to FAA-specific radio work and NAS (National Airspace System) logic.
  • Technical Evaluation: Flight maneuvers and procedural reviews aligned with FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS).
  • Check Ride Readiness: Mock oral exams and flight tests with instructors familiar with FAA DPE (Designated Pilot Examiner) expectations.
FAA validation, procedural alignment, and global operational eligibility

What This Program Prepares You For

FAA Regulatory Mastery

Master the nuances of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and how they differ from EASA Part-FCL and Part-OPS.

NAS Operational Proficiency

Confidently navigate the US National Airspace System, including TSA requirements and FAA flight planning.

Practical Test Success

Prepare for the FAA Knowledge Test (Written) and the Practical Test (Oral and Flight) with focused prep.

Global Career Portability

Hold the "Gold Standard" dual-licensing (EASA + FAA) for maximum employability in the global ferry, corporate, or airline sectors.

Everything you need to meet FAA standards

Key EASA-to-FAA Conversion Features

The EASA-to-FAA conversion is more than just a paperwork exercise; it is an operational transition. Our program is structured to bridge the gap between European JAR/EASA standards and the US Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), ensuring you are prepared for the nuances of the US National Airspace System.

Total Program Duration:

28–33 days

Total Training Hours:

95–105 total hours

EASA-to-FAA Conversion Structure

This structured conversion pathway focuses on regulatory alignment, “American-style” cockpit communication, and mastery of the FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS). The course is divided into administrative, theoretical, and practical phases.

01

Administrative Verification & TSA Phase

Duration: 45–90 Days (Pre-arrival)

Focus: Legal Eligibility and Security Clearance Before flying in the US, EASA pilots must navigate the bilateral agreement paperwork. We provide a dedicated consultant to ensure your file moves through the FAA Airmen Certification Branch without rejection.

Outcome: You arrive in the US with a valid Letter of Authenticity and legal clearance to begin flight training.

02

Ground Bridge & Knowledge Test Prep

Duration: Approx. 30–40 Hours

Format: Classroom Instruction + FAA Test Prep Software The FAA written exam (Knowledge Test) is a mandatory hurdle. This phase replaces EASA terminology with FAA definitions and prepares you for the specific logic of US aviation law.

Outcome: Completion of the FAA Knowledge Test with a passing endorsement.

03

Flight Proficiency & ACS Alignment

Aircraft: Cessna 172 / Piper Archer / Multi-Engine (Depending on License)

Focus: “Stick-and-Rudder” Precision & FAA SOPs FAA examiners look for specific “Private Pilot” or “Commercial Pilot” maneuvers that differ from EASA flight tests. This phase polishes your handling to meet the strict +/- tolerances of the FAA Airman Certification Standards.

Outcome: Flight instructor endorsement for the FAA Practical Test (Check Ride).

04

The FAA Practical Test (Check Ride)

Focus: The Oral Exam & Flight Evaluation The FAA check ride is a “one-on-one” event with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). It begins with a rigorous oral exam (often 2–4 hours) followed by a flight performance evaluation.

Outcome: Receipt of your Temporary Airman Certificate (FAA License) on the spot.

05

Expected Duration & Training Hours

Most EASA pilots complete the “Bridge” portion of the conversion within this timeframe once they arrive in the US.

PhaseDurationTraining/Study Hours
Admin/TSA60+ Days (Remote)N/A
Ground Bridge7–10 Days30 Hours
Flight Training10–14 Days15–20 Flight Hours
Check Ride1–2 Days4–6 Hours

Training Flow

A structured, four-phase pathway designed to guide EASA-licensed pilots through the regulatory bridge, TSA clearance, and FAA practical evaluation.

01

The Administrative Launch (Remote)

Focus: Verification of Authenticity & Security This phase occurs while you are still in Europe. It ensures that your EASA credentials are recognized by the FAA and that you are legally cleared to train.

Outcome: Receipt of the FAA Letter of Authenticity and TSA “Permission to Initiate Training.”

02

Ground Bridge & Knowledge Testing

Focus: Translating EASA Theory to FAA Standards Upon arrival in the US, the focus shifts to the FAA Knowledge Test. This is not a repeat of EASA ATPL theory, but a “bridge” to American operational logic.

Outcome: A passing FAA Knowledge Test report and a solid theoretical foundation.

03

Flight Proficiency & ACS Alignment

Focus: Operational Validation & Maneuvers This phase is spent in the cockpit. We align your existing flying skills with the Airman Certification Standards (ACS)—the specific “grading rubric” used by FAA examiners.

Outcome: Instructor endorsement certifying you are ready for the FAA Practical Test.

04

The FAA Practical Test (Check Ride)

Focus: Certification The final step is the “Check Ride” with a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE). This is a comprehensive evaluation of your knowledge and airmanship.

Outcome: Full FAA Pilot privileges and international operational eligibility.

Minimum Requirements:

Eligibility for EASA-to-FAA License Conversion

This program, offered by Simulator Center Training, is designed for EASA-licensed pilots who wish to obtain a standalone FAA certificate. Whether you are a PPL holder planning to fly N-registered aircraft or a CPL/ATPL holder pursuing career opportunities in the United States, Simulator Center Training provides the guidance and preparation needed to meet FAA eligibility requirements and successfully complete the conversion process.

01

Valid EASA Part-FCL License

You must hold a current and valid EASA Part-FCL Pilot License (PPL, CPL, or ATPL).

  • The license must not have any “suspended” or “revoked” status.
  • All ratings you wish to convert (SEP, MEP, IR) must be current in your EASA logbook.
  • Note: National or “Sub-ICAO” licenses (like LAPL) are not eligible for this conversion path.
02

FAA Letter of Authenticity

You cannot begin the practical phase without a Letter of Verification/Authenticity.

  • Applicants must submit FAA Form 8060-71 to the Airmen Certification Branch.
  • The FAA will contact your national CAA (e.g., LBA, DGAC, IAA) to verify your credentials.
  • Timeline: This process takes 45–90 days and must be initiated well before you travel to the US.
03

Medical Certification

A valid medical certificate is required to exercise the privileges of your FAA certificate.

  • FAA Medical: You must obtain a US Medical Certificate (First Class for ATP, Second Class for CPL) from an FAA-authorized Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
  • EASA Medical: Your original EASA medical must also remain valid to keep your underlying “basis” license current during the verification period.
04

TSA / AFSP Clearance

For non-US citizens, flight training is subject to security vetting.

  • You must register with the TSA Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP).
  • Clearance is required for “Initial” training, “Instrument” training, and “Multi-Engine” training.
  • Fingerprinting is required and can usually be completed upon arrival at our facility.
05

English Language Proficiency

Per FAA requirements, you must be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.

  • While your EASA license likely carries an ICAO Level 4, 5, or 6 endorsement, the FAA evaluator will personally verify your proficiency during the practical test.
06

Aeronautical Experience (CPL/ATPL Only)

If you are converting to a full FAA Commercial or ATP certificate (not just a PPL validation), you must meet the hourly requirements under 14 CFR Part 61:

  • Commercial: 250 hours total time.
  • ATP: 1,500 hours total time (with specific night and cross-country requirements).
  • Existing EASA flight hours are fully recognized, provided they are documented in a verifiable logbook.