Amateur Radio Licensing: How to Get Your Ham License (Tech, General, Extra)
Use the menu to select which license class you are interested in to be pointed to resources to help you.
Amateur Radio Licensing: A Practical Guide
What is amateur radio?
Amateur (ham) radio is a non-commercial radio service for public service, technical learning, and worldwide communication. Licensed operators use allocated frequencies to communicate locally and globally, experiment with antennas and modes, support emergency communications, and build community.
US-focused
This guide focuses on the United States (FCC). Other countries have similar structures—check your national regulator.
License classes
Technician
- Entry-level license
- Exam: 35 questions (Element 2)
- Privileges: VHF/UHF (most 6m and above), limited HF (e.g., 10m SSB/data, some CW)
- Great for local repeaters, APRS, satellites, and getting started
General
- Mid-level license
- Exam: 35 questions (Element 3)
- Privileges: Broad HF access (voice/data/CW across many bands)
- Ideal for regional and worldwide HF communications
Amateur Extra
- Top-tier license
- Exam: 50 questions (Element 4)
- Privileges: All US amateur bands and sub-bands
- Access to exclusive segments and vanity callsign flexibility
Exam elements
- Element 2 (Technician): Basic regulations, operating practices, safety, electronics.
- Element 3 (General): Advanced rules, HF operating, propagation, antennas, circuits.
- Element 4 (Extra): Advanced theory, design, digital modes, more in-depth regulations.
Exams are administered by Volunteer Examiners (VEs) through Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (VECs). Many sessions are in-person and online.
Costs & ID:
- Exam fee typically $5–$15 (varies by VEC); FCC application fee currently $35 for new licenses/renewals.
- Bring government ID; minors may require additional documentation (e.g., school ID, parent/guardian).
Study resources & tips
Free resources
- Practice tests: QRZ.com, HamStudy.org, ARRL practice exams
- Official question pools: NCVEC releases (updated every 3–4 years)
- Videos: Dave Casler (KE0OG), Ham Radio Crash Course
- Communities: r/amateurradio, local radio clubs
Paid options
- ARRL License Manuals (Tech/General/Extra)
- Gordon West (GROL/ham study guides)
- HamStudy Signal Stuff bundle, Fast Track series
Study tips
- Skim the manual once, then do spaced-repetition on practice questions.
- Focus on safety (RF exposure, grounding), band plans, and operating practice.
- After you’re scoring 85%+ consistently, schedule the exam within 1–2 weeks.
After you pass
- Wait for your callsign to appear in the FCC ULS/CORES (often within 1–3 business days).
- Program your radio (CHIRP for many handhelds; set repeaters, offsets, tones).
- Make your first contact: try a local net or a repeater during commute hours.
- Join a club or ARES/RACES group to get on-air practice and serve your community.
- Upgrade path: Once comfortable, prepare for General then Extra to expand HF privileges.
FAQ
Is Morse code required? No, the code requirement was eliminated. CW remains popular and useful.
How long is the license valid? 10 years. You can renew up to 90 days before expiration, with a grace period of 2 years (no transmitting during grace period).
Do I need equipment before testing? No. Many clubs will help you get on the air after you pass.