FAA Conversion
Just completed the FAA conversion from my Transport Canada ATP to the FAA ATP and thought I would share my experience if anyone is about to do this.
First off there is a bilateral agreement between the two countries which means a condensed FAA knowledge test of 60 questions has to be completed.
Before this stage though you must get your license verified by the FAA which can be done quite easily. Once verified to do any training in the US you must apply for finger prints to be taken and a letter from TSA stating you may start training.
For myself I had to take a ATP CTP course which ran for 6 days including 10 hours in a level D simulator. Once this is complete and you have your graduation certificate you then sign up for the knowledge test. I used Gleim and Dauntless , passed with a 90 percent.
One thing to note, Transport Canada is happy to transfer type ratings from Icao countries onto your Canadian License. For myself this is what I did.
I have an EASA license with a 737 type rating, that was transferred onto my Canadian license, then when I applied for the validation check the FAA accepts all type ratings on your Canadian License.
This meant for me I have a 737 type on all three ATPL licenses without the need of a skills test to have it endorsed. Now if I am hired here obviously the company will put me through a type rating but always best to apply with a nice type on your license.
Obviously, you still need a green card to work here, but I have that as well, which was an ordeal in itself with paperwork.
regards