Could it be that the reason for the CPL Type rating is the applicant had insufficient hours to qualify for the ATPL or had not passed the Written Exam for the ATPL, but passed the same Practical Test (Check Ride) as he would have had he the ATPL?
Perhaps someone currently conducting FAA Type Rating practical tests can explain how the procedure works so we can all understand the nuances of Type Ratings under the FAA system.
Ask and you shall receive.......from a friend still active in the business out in the wilds of Louisiana....still doing this stuff.
\Training under part 142 follows specified standards.
The Training Curriculum is listed in the Training Center Manual approved by the FAA assigned TCPM
All type-ratings are issued to ATPL Standards and follow the relative Practical Test Standards.
The PTS are to become amended to ACSs and follow new standards
in accordance with 61.58 Proficiency Check requirements and applies to
ALL type ratings.