Originally Posted by
B2N2
What process are you referring to that does not require a practical test?
The EASA FAA Bilateral agreement provides a process to convert an EASA licence (SEP/MEP/Instrument) to a standalone FAA licence. Only Private privileges can be obtained regardless of the level of the EASA licence.
Long story short: The applicant sits the PEP written exam and does a Flight Review, then applies to a FSDO or DPE. If Instrument privileges are desired, the applicant also sits the IEP written and does an IPC. It's explained in AC 61-143 linked above.