JB, it looks like you're confusing two different things, namely
validation and
conversion.
You are fine for a validation since you will only get a PPL in return.
The formal name is a "Private Pilot license based on a foreign license" in accordance with Federal Aviation regulation 61.75
FAR Part 61 Sec. 61.75 effective as of 10/20/2009
If you wish you can have all your ratings added, like ME and IR.
It is a validation for flying for recreational purposes. No hour requirement as long as you hold at least a Private
For a conversion as in you have a foreign CPL and you want a US CPL you DO need to meet the FAA hour requirements.
For a US CPL you need to do the following:
- Apply for a US PPL on the basis of your CPL (see above)
- Pass a FAA IR written test
- Take training as required to pass the FAA IR practical test
- Pass a FAA CPL written test
- Take training as required to pass the FAA CPL practical test
(with at least 250hrs.)
To make things clear, for a validation you
can use your foreign IR, for a conversion you
can not use your foreign IR