skydriller,
You can log onto the website while already here in the U.S. too. I was just addressing people that would be doing the full training Visa before coming over.
According to the rule, your information is sent in and you can start flying immediately. No need to wait for a reply from the TSA.
Tinstaafl,
As for security, it does verify that the person who shows up to train is in fact who they say they are.
Part of the problem is the TSA does not understand anything about aviation. I look for organizations like AOPA to work on getting this streamlined and 100% pilot friendly.
As for the straw that breaks the camel's back, I do not see it that way at all. This will be a very simple process.
Happy Flying,
Richard