Originally Posted by
Whopity
A Frozen ATPL simply means that you have obtained the CPL and IR and have passed the ATPL theory exams and are qualified to hold an ATPL, but still have to have the required experience and pass a type rating skill test. The licence doesn't unfreeze, you have to apply for the ATPL once you meet all of the requirements.
Just a minor tweak to the above (if EASA/CAA) - "type rating skill test" should read "License skill test. You will need to hold a type rating in order to fly multi-crew as a first officer with your CPL/IR. Once you have the ATPL requirements (1500h, 500 MP etc) you will do an ATPL skills test and apply for the ATPL. Under EASA/CAA this is the easiest flight test you will ever do, as it is essentially the same LPC/OPC that you do every 6 months PLUS a raw data ILS.