Foreign License Conversion to FAA

ATA Flight School offers comprehensive conversion training to help you transition your foreign pilot’s license to an FAA-certified license.

Conversion Process for FAA Private Pilot License (PPL)

The first step in the conversion process is to request a Foreign License Verification Letter from the FAA, which can be obtained while you are still in your home country.

Once you arrive in the United States, you will meet with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) to review your documents and undergo a brief interview.

Upon completion, the DPE will issue you a Foreign-Based Private Pilot License (PPL).

To maintain currency, you will need a valid FAA Medical Certificate and must complete a Flight Review. Following this, you can proceed with the required training hours to achieve additional licenses.

Conversion for Commercial and ATP Licenses

Private Pilot License Holders: If you only need to convert your Private Pilot License, the Foreign-Based FAA Private Pilot License process will suffice. Note that this license relies on the validity of your foreign license and the FAA Verification Letter, which expires every six months. Both must be kept current to maintain your FAA license.
Commercial Pilots with Less Than 1,500 Hours: You can convert your foreign Commercial Pilot License to an FAA Commercial Pilot License by first obtaining the Foreign-Based FAA Private Pilot License and completing IFR and Commercial Pilot training. This process typically takes 2–4 months at our school.
Commercial Pilots with More Than 1,500 Hours: Pilots eligible for an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) License can obtain their FAA ATP by completing ATP-CTP training at a certified program and undergoing flight training in our Piper Seneca to prepare for the ATP check ride. This process, including the check ride, usually takes 2–4 weeks to complete.

Important Notes

We strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information; however, pilots should verify requirements with the relevant regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

For details about our conversion program rates and to get started, please contact us directly.