Adding New Ratings to an FAA Restricted License
Hiya,
As we know, one can apply for an FAA Restricted Private Pilot Certificate (based on a proper ICAO PPL) in order to fly in the US.
A few years ago, I've done the same using my UK/JAA SEP PPL. I've also trained for and obtained the FAA Instrument Rating, and got my FAA Certificate stamped with "IR: US TEST PASSED".
My question is: if I now obtain a UK/JAA MEP class rating, can I go back to the FSDO and add an MEP rating to my FAA Certificate? Would that mean I can fly ME/IR in the US? What if I have UK/JAA MEIR?
The reason is I'd like to build ME hours in the US but don't want to go through the hassle of another MEP test and the visa application. I know the FAA has a webpage discussing the foreign license, but I remember them only talking about initial applications and not subsequent ratings.
Thanks a lot!