I think I've read before that you can't send off the paperwork until you have the required 200hrs. As said above, if you complete the CPL and then go straight on to the ME/IR you can send the paperwork away along with a 'single payment' to have the licence upgraded along with having the ratings added.
However if you send your paperwork off after completing your CPL course and then social flying for 25hrs you will have a payment for upgrading your licence. When you eventually get your MEP / MEIR you'll have to pay the CAA another payment.
If you are looking to do your FIR after you CPL then you may as well send off the paperwork after completing your FIR. Although ... to start your FIR course you'll need:
200 hours total time, with
100 hours PIC for CPL/ATPL holders, and
150 hours PIC for PPL holders.
If you don't have a CPL on your licence does this mean you are still a PPL licence holder? even though the same school know you have passed the exams and skills test for the CPL? I guess that is for somebody else to answer.
My motorbike licence has (<33bhp) from when I did my motorbike licence nearly 10 years ago, this restriction lasts for 2 years ... you're then free to ride what you want. However should I get pulled by the Police they will see <33bhp on my licence and 1,000cc written on my bike?!?
