How to Become a Ham

Becoming a Ham is now easier then ever.

We will discus how to become licensed in the US only. For other countries do a Google search on how to become a Ham in your respected country, or if you know of a Ham ask.

All amateur radio operators are licensed by their respected government officials. In the USA it is the FCC. As a requirement to get your license you are required to pass a multiple answers test. Based on what level of license you want these tests range in 35 to 50 questions. With each test giving you more privileges on the air waves. in the old days Morse Code was required, not anymore.

The tests are administered by other Hams, on a regular basis. The FCC does not give out the tests. If you pass they file all the information with the FCC and your granted a license in a few days. There is no charge for the license itself, however some groups do charge under $20 to take the test. this helps them offset expenses for administering the test, such as rental fee of a room. Once you receive your license it is good for 10 years and can be renewed without taking a re-test for free.

There are many ways to go about preparing for the test. and to be honest the entry level test is easy to pass, and is designed to help make you pass. For we as Hams want to get you into this wonderful hobby of ours.

Local Clubs- All around the world there are many clubs that Hams are members of. Many of these clubs welcome new people interested in amateur radio to sit in on a meeting and ask questions. Besides that allot of them offer on a regular basis training for the various levels of licensing, besides the tests.

Elmers- Better known as the “sensais’ of ham radios. These hams know their stuff and are there to help other Hams and new comers to become Hams. They are always willing to help train you and get you into contact with those that can administer the tests to you.

Self Study- This is what I did. There are many resources available from books, to online practice tests, to online courses. This is a excellent way for those that want to become a Ham, but have a tight schedule and may not be able to attend formal training.

Follow the links tabs to find out more information on the above.

License Classes

Technician Class: This license is granted after passing a 35-question test on basic regulations, operating practices, and electronic theory, with a focus on VHF and UHF applications. No Morse code is required. With a Technician Class license, you will have all ham radio privileges above 30 megahertz (MHz) including the 2-meter band. Technicians may operate FM voice, digital packet (computers), television, single-sideband voice and several other modes. Technicians may also operate on the 80, 40, and 15 meter HF bands using CW, and on the 10 meter band using CW, voice, and digital modes.

General Class: Technicians upgrade to General Class by passing a 35-question examination on regulations, operating practices, and electronics theory. No Morse code is required. In addition to Technician Class, General Class operators may use high power transmitters and have access to the 160, 30, 17, 12, and 10 meter bands and access to major parts of the 80, 40, 20, and 15 meter bands.

Extra Class: An upgrade to Extra Class is accomplished by passing a 50-question examination on regulations, specialized operating practices, advanced electronics theory, and radio equipment design. No Morse code is required. While this may seem a challenge it results in the privilege of operating on all authorized Amateur Radio frequencies.

Once licensed you will receive a call sign which is used to identify your station on the air waves. We will discuss the makeup of call signs shortly.


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