As the legend goes, the FFXI Chocobos are the formerly from the La Theine Plateau, however, the undomesticated species of their kind have long been wiped out. These large birds were originally tamed by the Elvaans for riding.
These days, pretty much everyone uses these unique birds to cover long distances in short periods of time. Their physiognomy makes it impossible for the Chocobos to fly, so instead they are quite used to running at high speeds.
Chocobos can not be owned. You have to rent one from the Chocobo stables in any of the Vana'diel cities. But you can do that only after you are a level 20 at least, and have obtained a FFXI Chocobo License. If you are a level 15-19 adventurer then nobody is going to let you ride a Chocobo unless or until you go to one of the main cities (Bastok, Windurst, or Sand'Oria) to rent one. And if you do, you only get to ride it for 15 minutes only (real time).
It is said that the FFXI Chocobo has been abused by the previous owner, so it is not in a very trusting mood. You have to gain its trust by completing the 'Chocobo wounds' quest. Feed 4 stacks of gysahl greens to the chocobo. One stack per day. It won't eat the first couple of days but your persistence will do the trick. Once the Chocobo starts to trust you, start planning for your ride. You will receive a Chocobo License and then you'd be allowed to ride one anytime you like, the level 20 limit still stands though.
Riding a Final Fantasy XI Chocobo isn't everyone's cup of tea. They are a wild group, so if you are not properly skilled you might end up on your back before you could say 'gysahl greens!'. Therefore, keep in mind that level 20 adventurers get a 30 minute ride which can be enhanced through the use of some unique crafted gear, but level 15 and over get only half of that.
FFXI Chocobos are great hole diggers for finding treasured items. While you ride a Chocobo, you have the option to initiate 'hole digging'. Chocobos love gysahl greens, so if you have a stack in your inventory, your chocobo will dig a hole for you. In case you get lucky you might find something worthwhile from the hole digging experience, otherwise the Chocobo will kick you off and leave as soon as it tires. 'Destiny favors the brave' they say. Be brave.
