Hi,
You require an FAA PPL to fly N Registered Aeroplanes.
This can be obtained either by passing the full written and flight test, however this will require an M1 Visa.
The other method is by obtaining an FAA PPL based upon the validity of your JAA PPL, this is covered under the Federal Aviation Requirements (FAR) Part 61 Subsection 75.
How do you go about obtaining an FAA PPL based on your JAA PPL? Well you need to go through the following process, which in short is:
1) Obtain and fill in the FAA Form. Then Fax it to the FAA in Oklahoma.
2) Obtain and fill in the CAA Form. Then Fax it, together with your credit card details (£15) to the UK CAA.
3) The FAA will then request your information from UK CAA.
4) Once verified the FAA will send both you and your chosen FSDO (Flight Standards District Office) a copy of a verification letter.
5) Phone your selected FSDO and arrange an appointment.
6) Turn up at the FSDO with passport, JAA PPL and medical, logbook, etc...
7) After about half an hour walk out of the FSDO with your new FAA PPL!
You will then require a BFR (Bi-Annual Flight Review) with an Instructor to validate your FAA PPL. This is not treated as training and thus you do NOT require an M1 visa. You can enter the States on a visa waiver program (ie fill in the form on the plane).
If you're going to obtain the full FAA PPL then you will require at least an FAA Class 3 Medical (for PPLs) which is valid for up to 3 years.
However if you are obtaining an FAA PPL based on your JAA PPL then you will NOT need an FAA Medical. But your JAA PPL *and* JAA Medical (Class 2 at least) must remain valid and current.
I did write a thread a good few months ago which explains the verification process in a lot more detail. I'll try and find that and will post it here later.
Hope this helps.
Best wishes,
Charlie Zulu.