Facts whats your problem if you have a valid FAA licence the CAA recognise that (as per ICAO policy) outright you can fly a G reg. aircraft DAY/VFR on that US ticket.Its the US that is out of step with ICAO policy, the FAA certificate issued on the basis of an ICAO licence is what most other countries would call a validation.If I want to convert my UK licence to an FAA one to stand alone I,ve got to do the flight test and the writtens so whats the difference.My present FAA licence is only valid if my Uk one is fully valid.Best decide which licencing system you want to be in then get it and remain within that system.I,ve never liked gate-crashing other peoples parties.!!