You take the PPL examinations and flight test, exactly as you would have to in the UK. You will also need a valid FAA Medical and will have to meet FAA revalidation criteria. The IR Tests are quite seperate and relate only to the IR, which you can use in an N registered aircraft with your Restricted licence
A stand alone FAA PPL even with an IR will not give you any additional privileges. You cannot use it in a G registered aircraft.
[This message has been edited by Noggin (edited 17 June 2001).]