To do b737 rating in sim is a matter of completing a "reduced rating course" with it's own minimum course hours. Although eligible for this reduced course due to b737 experience, the course is still prohibitively expensive for my current requirements. I want the ATP, not necessarily the b737 rating.
The ATP checkride however is possible straight off, with no preparation. I am also not required to be signed off beforehand ( as being ready). In reality however I would of course seek guidance and do as much beforehand as advised.
An APD being authorized only to perform certification within an operators FAA approved training program is the kicker.
Thanks for clearing this up.