Flying out in USA/Canada

[ATC83]

Hi Guys

Apologies if this has come up elsewhere on the forum but cant seem to find any info if it has!
If you hold a current JAA ATPL with 737 NG experience what is actually involved in gaining an FAA ATP licence? Currently flying in UK but keen on flying for a US/Canadian airline. All I can find on the net is converting from FAA to JAA, so was hoping you guys could shed a little light on it for me?? Would you have to do an FAA IR, written exams etc or is there some sort of recognition with certain aspects of holding a JAA ATPL?

Thanks

[blue_side_up]

For Canadian licensing, try the Transport Canada web site. They have a page devoted to foriegn conversion requirements.

www.tc.gc.ca/civilaviation/general/personnel/fore.htm

You will still need the legal right to live/work in Canada. Lots of underemployed pilots looking for the same jobs!

[BizJetJock]

For FAA, you do the 80 question multi-choice written paper, then when you're in the sim the examiner signs off your ATP practical test. It's that straightforward. However, before people start going on about FAA licences being easy, it's worth noting that the requirements of the Practical Test Standard published by the FAA are more stringent than the LST standards laid down by the JAR's. +/-50 feet on all altitudes etc.
As blue side up points out, though, the difficult bit is often having the right to work.

Good luck!

BJJ