I have just been through this exercise.
I have an FI(R) and the requisite hours for a CRI. After exchanging emails with the CAA Policy Department I was told:
Assuming all the required things are in place, all you need to do is submit an Instructor Form 1 (Form FCL 675 Issue 5) completed at sections 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 14 together with the requisite rating issue fee, logbook evidence of the required flying experience and evidence of a current single engine aeroplane rating and FI(A) by no later than 16 September 2012. The CRI(SPA) on issue will have the same validity as the F(A).
I filled in the form, visited the counter service at Gatwick, had my wallet lightened and got CRI added to my licence.
Not sure about why the stipulation "before 16 September 2012" - but be aware that the CAA Licensing services are not available 13-16 September (see:
http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/srg_lts...v1Aug%2012.pdf)
OC619
P.S. They get a lot of knocks - but I found everyone at the CAA very helpful while I was working out how to do this
