Amateur Radio

Operator Licensing

I am considering applying for an amateur operator license. The FCC currently offers amateur operating licenses at three technical skill levels (or operator classes):

1. Technician Class: This class allows you to transmit in any of 17 amateur frequency bands above 50 MHz with up to 1500 watts. To receive a technician class license, you must answer correctly at least 26 out of 35 questions. While Morse code proficiency is no longer required, passing a 5 wpm telegraphy examination will earn you privileges in four HF long-distance shortwave bands (3-30 MHz).
2. General Class: This class carries privileges in all 27 amateur bands. The 5 wpm telegraphy test is not optional for this class, and you must pass both the first examination and a second 26/35-question examination.
3. Amateur Extra: This is the highest amateur proficiency level, and it earns you additional spectrum in the HF bands (not to mention the esteem of your peers!). In addition to the tests for the previous two classes, you must correctly answer at least 37 questions on a 50-question written exam.

The FCC provides detailed information on the licensing and operation of amateur radio.

Online Resources

• Part 97--Amateur Radio Service-- The actual FCC rules for amateur radio service
• Amateur Electronic Supply-- Offers parts and equipment for amateur radio
• American Radio Relay League-- The largest amateur radio organisation in the United States.
• ARRL Ham Radio License Manual Site
• Hello...-- A friendly introduction to world radio
• qrz.com-- News and information for ham radio operators
• VOCAP-- The Linux version of a slick HF propagation prediction tool
• W5YI-- Resources for amateur and commercial radio