Licensing

  • License Training

  • Testing

  • Locations

If this is your first time obtaining your Amateur Radio license, don’t be concerned if it looks a little complicated and if you have to jump through hoops. The results are totally worth it.
Many in your local Amateur Radio Club will help you through each step, providing classes and exam sessions.

The Challenging Section Getting Your License. Here are a few steps that you need to prepare for your exam.

Find A Club

Step 1 – As said before, everyone in your local club has gone through this process. Use the below link to find your local club.

Step 2 -The Federal Communications Commission requires all license applicants to have an FRN (federal registration number. Below is the link directly to the FCC.

Register For Your FRN

Step 3 – Ham Radio Prep is about more than just preparing for the exam; it’s about understanding the technical aspects of your license class. By taking these excellent online segments during your preparation, you will gain valuable knowledge. Hearing your examiner say, “You passed!” at the end of your exam makes all the time and effort worthwhile.

HAM RADIO PREP
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Some Advice:

When taking your ham radio exam (Technician, General, or Amateur Extra), you can choose between in-person or online testing. Each option has distinct advantages depending on your situation. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

📍 In-Person Testing:

✅ Benefits:

  • Hands-on support: VEs (Volunteer Examiners) are physically present and can clarify procedures or answer pre-test questions.
  • Fewer tech issues: No worries about internet connectivity, webcam setup, or browser compatibility.
  • More flexible ID verification: Showing ID and signing paperwork is usually faster and easier in person.
  • Group testing atmosphere: Seeing others take the test may help calm nerves or give a sense of camaraderie.
  • Local ham club connections: This is a great opportunity to meet other local hams and learn about clubs, events, and repeaters in your area.

❌ Drawbacks:

  • You need to travel to the location, which may not be convenient.
  • Fewer sessions are offered compared to online, especially in rural areas or between events.
  • Schedule inflexibility – test dates are often tied to club meetings or ARRL events.

💻 Online Testing:

✅ Benefits:

  • Convenient scheduling – more frequent sessions, including evenings and weekends.
  • Take it from anywhere with a quiet room and a stable internet connection.
  • Fast results – many online sessions submit results immediately, speeding up FCC processing.
  • It’s ideal if you’re in a remote location or have mobility concerns.

❌ Drawbacks:

  • Strict tech requirements: Stable internet, computer with webcam, microphone, and sometimes multiple cameras (e.g., phone camera to monitor the room).
  • The room setup must be exam-compliant: no clutter, distractions, or other people are allowed to be present. Some VE teams are more strict than others.
  • Setting up ID and screen sharing can be a hassle if you’re not tech-savvy.
  • Less human connection – the experience can feel more procedural or clinical.

👨‍🔧 My Recommendation:

  • Choose in-person if:
    • You want face-to-face interaction.
    • You’d like to meet local ham operators and join a club.
    • You’re not comfortable with online proctoring and tech setups.
  • Choose online if:
    • You’re confident using video conferencing tools (Zoom, etc.).
    • You want to test quickly without waiting for a local event.
    • You live far from a VE group or have a busy schedule.