In order to obtain an amateur radio license (there are several license classifications - each one requiring additional proficiency which grants additional operating privileges on various radio frequencies) an individual must pass a written test administered by an authorized testing body known as Volunteer Examiners. The tests are provided by the Federal Communications Commission and the Volunteer Examiners are basically accredited by the FCC. A person usually buys a book, reads it and then takes the test. Some license classes also require the knowledge/ability to send and receive Morse Code.

The license is issued by the Federal Communications Commission and is good throughout the United States and many other parts of the world. There are several test questions relating to operating procedures and licensing, so even the rookie should understand that when beginning the process.

The Volunteer Examiner Council contact number for the San Diego area is:
(San Diego Amateur Radio Council VEC) Information Phone Line
(619) 465-EXAM (3926)

In San Diego the Volunteer Examiners are sponsored by SANDARC.:
http://www.sandarc.org

Some basic understanding of key terms associated with HAM radio are explained on our FAQs page.

For information on taking the written exam in the San Diego area, see our Testing Locations page.

For additional information on licensing, please see these links:

http://www.arrl.org/hamradio.html

http://www.gordonwestradioschool.com

http://www.hamradio.com

 

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