my timeline for pal
In case it should help anyone, a big tip I was given was to pay by credit card, not by cheque, as they may sit on the cheque. Having some knowledge of the banking system it does actually take over 45 days for a cheque to properly clear.
My timeline was:
June, take Pal and Rpal courses
2 weeks later received stamped copies of course records (Ontario)
Immediately sent in pal and rpal applications, using Canada Post Expedited with signature required, during postal strike.
4 days later Canada Post notified me that it had been delivered. Checked online, showed time of day and who signed for it.
2 days later called CFP to inquire about my application, was told it hadn't been received yet. Advised that it had been received and I gave the name of receiver and date/time of receipt. An hour later it appeared online.
Called every two days to try and get the interviews done, no takers.
Week 3, interviews conducted. Be sure that you and your references have their full names in the outgoing voicemail message. CFP will not leave a message, period, unless they know exactly who they are leaving it with.
Week 4, day 27, called and was told it's approved, it will be in the mail tomorrow.
Week 5, called and was told that it was mailed out on day 31 (a weekend having been between approval day and mailing day). Arrived in the mail 1 week later--apparently Canada Post has really delayed service between NB and ONT.
Bottom line, stay on top of your application, pay by credit card, be polite, and don't wait for them to call, they won't. You should be able to get your PAL pretty close to the mandated 28 days.
Hope this helps.