Question about CFI renewal

[mojo6911]

I have renewed by CFI in the past by adding ratings, so my first renewal will be due in March 2010. I have to do a yearly FIRC as a Part 141 assistant chief, which is due at the end of this month.

I signed up for American Flyer's lifetime course, and would like to renew my CFI early, this month, so that I don't have to do the FIRC again in a few months.

Is this possible? From the way I read 61.197, it seems like I can only renew if the FIRC is completed within 3 months of the expiration. Maybe I am just reading it wrong, but is it possible to renew it early by doing a FIRC?

[PA44-LUV]

You can renew early, you just won't keep the same expiration month of your current CFI certificate. You have to submit your paperwork to the FAA within 3 months of taking the FIRC or you'll have to take it again.

[mojo6911]

Originally Posted by PA44-LUV

You can renew early, you just won't keep the same expiration month of your current CFI certificate. You have to submit your paperwork to the FAA within 3 months of taking the FIRC or you'll have to take it again.

That is what I thought, but the wording of the reg had me a bit confused. Thanks.