Getting Your Ham Radio License

Even if it is generally just a hobby, operating a ham radio still requires a license. To prepare for the licensing test, it is important that there is at least a basic knowledge of radio and electronics. For additional knowledge such as FCC regulations, station operation, and safety considerations, study manuals for the tests are available from the American Radio Relay League or Ham Test Online.

There are three tiers in the ham radio license structure in the United States. The Technician Class is the entry-level license. Originally, this was intended for radio control of radio airplanes. To attain this class, one has to have at least 26 correct answers in a 35-question test. The coverage of this test includes electronics basics, Federal Communications Commission laws, and good operating practices. Passing the test means one can use all frequencies above 30MHz as well as limited privileges in the high-frequency bands. The next level is the General Class. Obtaining this gives the license to operate on all bands available and 83% of all amateur high frequency bands, except for the DX windows on most bands. The test also has the same requirement of at least 26 correct answers out of 35 questions but focuses on higher levels of electronics and regulations. The third tier is the Extra Class. The test for this level is longer and more difficult. There are fifty questions, of which the applicant should answer at least 36 correctly. The applicant should expect to answer questions on advanced radio theory, regulations, and radio equipment design. Having an Extra Class license will grant the bearer all privileges on all amateur bands in the United States.

Starting 2007, the FCC announced that the requirement of Morse code proficiency to get an amateur operator license for frequencies below 30MHz was scrapped. Since the ability to send and receive messages in Morse code was removed, the ARRL noted that the applications for licenses significantly increased.

Aside from study manuals, the American Radio Relay League website also posts testing locations. Ham radio licensing tests are given throughout the year to applicants of any age and administered by volunteer examiners. On the day of the test, the applicant is required to bring to the testing site identification with photo, two pencils and a pen, and a calculator. Test results are available immediately as the examiners will grade the test right after the applicant finishes it.