My question is does anyone know of a way of getting this done without being in the US? My understanding is that you have to actually show up at an FSDO with the approval paperwork and your licence to get it issued
Look people it's not that hard. To get a FAA validation FOR FREE you need to come to a FAA office to identify yourself.
It's not rocket science.
Can I get a free JAA validation without ever going to Europa land?
I didn't think so.
RANT OFF
Maybe I'm a bit daft, or a slow learner pilot, or both, but just be prepared for it not taking 5 hrs and be done in a day. That won't happen, not even in Twin Peaks, Omaha. Mine took 25 hrs. Granted, this was in Los Angeles right next to LAX, so the workload is high, but still.
In my experience the average is 17-20 hrs of flight training.
Any reasonable skill in maneuvers and radio communications are usually lacking.
Understandable, very few can remain proficient with 12hrs /year.
Anyway, to the original poster, if you need any help or advise, let me know.