Q12: I'm a non-U.S. licensed private pilot.  Can I fly in the U.S.?

A:  In general, a pilot's license entitles you to fly aircraft of the same
    country of registry as your license _anywhere_ in the world.  So if
    you can find an airplane registered in your "home" country, there's
    no problem.  For most non-U.S. pilots, if you wish to obtain a U.S.
    pilot's certificate, simply present your existing pilot certificate at
    any FAA FSDO (acronyms below), and you will receive free of charge an
    equivalent U.S. certificate (private and instrument ratings only).
    Note that non-governmentally regulated licenses, such as a BGA or
    FAI badge issued by the British Gliding Association, will _not_ be
    honored by the FAA.  (In this particular case, experienced British
    glider pilots will usually have no trouble having a U.S. flight
    instructor issue a U.S. student pilot certificate as part of the
    checkout process.  This will be valid for restricted solo flight.)
    Some FSDOs also require a current medical certificate; you will
    probably be able to use your "home" medical.  But call the FSDO
    before you visit.  You can then legally fly U.S.-registered
    aircraft.

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