Getting Licenced

Want to be a Ham Radio Operator?

You Can Have This Capability for Yourself and Your Family—

Getting Your Own Ham Radio License-
Unlike some other types of radio services, you need an FCC license to communicate with a ham radio. There are three levels of Amateur Radio Licenses, and getting your first one is not all that hard. Many people pass their FCC exam in a week of spare time study and there are a lot of groups and people who can help you.

Costs-
In general, you can expect to spend about $40 in books and fees to earn your first license. With another $40, you can purchase your first radio and start making contacts. Of course good, used equipment is available for less.

Technician License -
The Technician class license is the entry-level license to Ham Radio. To earn the Technician license requires passing one 35 question examination on radio theory, regulations and operating practices. The license gives access to all Amateur Radio frequencies above 30 megahertz, allowing these licensees the ability to communicate locally and most often within North America.

General License-    
The General class license is the next step in Ham Radio. It grants some operating privileges on all Amateur Radio bands and all operating modes. This license opens the door to world-wide communications. Must have passed the Technician License first.  

Amateur Extra License-         
The Amateur Extra class license is the highest class and conveys all available U.S. Amateur Radio operating privileges on all bands and all modes. Earning the license requires passing a 50 question examination. Extra class licensees must also have passed all previous license class written examinations.        

                Visit www.arrl.org for more info