Perhaps we can have some clarification by our French and German brethren?
I believe that a Test Pilot Rating (Class 1 / 2) exists nationally in these countries. As a graduate tp and one of the few practising 'independent' rotary test pilots, it grieves me that in our CAA-regulated part of JARland there is no rotary 'class' rating and that the French/German tp's class rating (if I understand it correctly) is unlikely to find its way into EASA-FCL. So can normally only work in aircraft on which type rated and current, which can add an impossible amount to the quote. Makes one think that, even approaching retirement in a few years, it's worth now getting a FAA Licence.
Hobbyhorse to stable.
Agree with production tp training. I think ETPS is now offering course as well as NTPS.