License Conversion
Converting a pilot license between ICAO member states is one of the most common and complex processes in international aviation. Whether you hold an FAA, EASA, CASA, Transport Canada, or other ICAO-compliant license, converting to another authority involves validating your credentials, passing local exams, and potentially completing additional flight training. This comprehensive guide covers the major conversion pathways, documentation requirements, and practical tips for a smooth process.
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Who Needs This
EASA States
Third Country Licence (TCL) conversion per FCL.810. Full ATPL theory required. Process takes 6-18 months.
FAA (United States)
61.75 (restricted) is fastest — days to weeks. Full conversion (61.71) takes months. TSA clearance needed for foreign nationals.
CASA (Australia)
Foreign licence assessment. Credit for some exams. Flight test with CASA examiner.
Transport Canada
Foreign licence validation with Canadian law exam. Full conversion with all Canadian exams.
Middle East
GCAA (UAE) and GACA (Saudi) accept EASA/FAA with validation, state law exams, and skill checks.
What's Covered
FAA to EASA Conversion
EASA to FAA Conversion
Other Major Conversion Pathways
Standards & Requirements
- Valid license from an ICAO member state
- Valid medical certificate (may need to convert to target authority medical)
- ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4+ for international conversions
- Flight experience documentation (logbook, verification letters)
- Current ratings and endorsements documentation
- Criminal background check or security clearance (varies by authority)
- Proof of theoretical knowledge (exam records or completion certificates)
Key ICAO Standards & Documents
- ICAO Annex 1 — Chapter 1.2.2 (Recognition of Licences)
- ICAO Doc 9379 — Manual of Procedures for Establishment and Management of a State's Personnel Licensing System
- EASA Part-FCL Subpart A, FCL.015 and FCL.810 — Application and Third Country Licences
- 14 CFR 61.75 — Private Pilot Certificate Issued on Basis of a Foreign Pilot Licence
- 14 CFR 61.71 — Graduates of Foreign Flight Schools or Holders of Foreign Licences
How to Prepare
Research the specific conversion pathway for your target authority well in advance — requirements change frequently
Gather all documentation early: logbooks, exam records, medical certificates, license copies, recommendation letters
Get your logbook hours verified by your current authority — some target authorities require official verification letters
Start studying for any required exams (air law, local regulations) months before you plan to convert
Contact the target authority's licensing department directly for the most current requirements
Budget 3-18 months for the process depending on the authorities involved
Consider hiring an aviation licensing specialist or consultant for complex conversions
Maintain your current license validity throughout the conversion process — do not let it expire
Key Differences by Region
One of the most accessible conversions. 61.75 restricted certificate is quick. Full conversion requires FAA written + practical test. No bilateral recognition of EASA theory exams.
Most restrictive for foreign conversions. Full ATPL theory (14 exams) required with no credit for FAA or other exams. Process typically takes 12-18 months.
Moderate difficulty. Some credit given for FAA/EASA exams. Flight test required. Australian-specific regulations exam.
Relatively straightforward validation process. Canadian aviation law exam plus flight test for full conversion.
Accepts EASA and FAA licenses with validation. Additional UAE Air Law exam. CBR (Competency Based Recency) skill test.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a license conversion take?
It varies dramatically by authority. FAA 61.75 can be done in days. EASA full conversion takes 12-18 months due to theory exam requirements. Middle East validations typically take 1-3 months.
Can I work as a pilot while converting my license?
Generally no — you need the local authority's license or a validated license to exercise privileges in that country. Some authorities offer temporary validation during the conversion process.
Do I need to redo all my flight training?
Usually not. Most conversions require you to pass written exams and a practical test, but do not require repeating flight training from scratch. Additional hours may be needed for specific ratings.
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