Converting pilot licenses between countries
How licenses move between FAA, EASA and other ICAO states — validation vs conversion, and what it takes.
Pilot licenses are issued by national authorities under the ICAO framework, but they don't transfer automatically. Flying in another country usually means a validation or a conversion.
Validation vs conversion:
- A validation lets you fly on your existing foreign license for a limited time or purpose (e.g. an FAA license validated to fly an N-registered aircraft abroad, or a temporary foreign validation).
- A conversion issues you a full license from the destination authority, replacing reliance on the original.
FAA ↔ EASA — the two largest systems:
- FAA → EASA is demanding: converting an FAA license to an EASA one typically requires passing EASA theory exams (the full ATPL theory is 13–14 exams), a skill test, and meeting EASA medical and language standards. Credit is given for experience but the theory is the hurdle.
- EASA → FAA is comparatively light: the FAA can issue a certificate based on a foreign license (§ 61.75) for private privileges, or you can convert by taking FAA knowledge and practical tests.
Other ICAO states generally issue a license or validation based on your existing ICAO-compliant license plus local exams, a check ride, and a medical.
Also required to work abroad: the right to work (visa/sponsorship) and English (or local) language proficiency to ICAO Level 4 or above.
Always start from the destination authority's official conversion guidance, which changes over time.
*Reference and training only — verify current conversion rules with the relevant authority.*