Frustrating FAA rules!
I know rules are rules, and we have to work with them. But that doesn't stop me being frustrated.
In December 2001, I got an FAA license based on my foreign (UK JAR) license. This was before the recent introduction of the requirements to get the CAA to verify the authenticity of my foreign license - it was a simple case of meeting an examiner, doing some paperwork, and handing over some cash.
Then I lost my FAA license.
I searched the FAA website, and found a form for obtaining a replacement for a lost license. It was very simple - fill in the form, send it to the FAA together with a cheque (sorry, check) for the massive sum of $2, and wait for a replacement. Problem 1 - I don't have a cheque book which I can use to write a cheque in US dollars. Problem 2 - the form needs either a social security number (which I don't have, since I don't live or work in the US) or my pilots license number (which was on the license which I'd lost). Fortunately, a friendly PPRuNer came to my assistance (thanks, if you're reading this!) on both these matters, and within a week or two I had everything I need. A quick trip to the Post Office, then wait for the replacement.
Yesterday, I arrived home to find a letter from the FAA. In order to replace my license, they need the CAA to confirm the validity of my UK license. Which means filling in all the paperwork I thought I'd avoided, and sending the CAA a cheque. Then, I have to turn up at an FSDO in person to collect my replacement. Exactly the same as if the FAA had never heard of me to start with!
These rules must be annoying for anyone who is actually planning on flying in the US. But right now I'm not sure what my plans are. I might go to Florida to do some flying this Autumn. Or Texas is another possibility. I don't know which FSDO to arrange to collect my license from, or when. Or maybe I'll go to South Africa, in which case I won't be able to collect it at all. All I want is a copy of a document which they've already given me!
Ok, I know it's my own fault for being stupid enough to lose it in the first place. But thanks for letting me vent my anger here!
FFF
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