In the US you can both log PIC when practicing Instrument flying, one under the hood and one safety pilot. But you both have to be rated on the type of aircraft. For example, if you have no 'night rating' and you're flying under the hood with a safety pilot who is night rated, at night, then technically you cannot claim PIC for the flight! The only other time you cannot log PIC in the states is when training for a diffent type of A/C (ie. From SEL to MEL) until you have passed the check ride. Also note that one of you has to be under the hood for both to claim PIC.....(edited to add this bit in)
As far as flying from the right seat goes....in the US you can fly from either seat, no problem. Trouble is that if you have an accident and you're flying from the right seat, the insurance company may get a bit funny about it.
By the way, if anyone wants to do some hour building in California early next year, I'd be up for it, share time, instrument practice etc....
Cheers
EA
[ 16 December 2001: Message edited by: englishal ]