Your Amateur Radio License

Today’s Article Count is 15. Enjoy.

Most Recent Update March 12, 2024

The articles posted on this page are intended to help people interested in learning how to prepare for the first Amateur Radio License Exam.

Additional articles describe some of the things the newly licensed Amateur Radio Operator can do after receiving his or her FCC License.

What Does It Take to Successfully Pull Off A Volunteer Exam Session?

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Our main author has worked his fingers to the bone creating a great article describing the many people, their roles and processes that come into play to help ensure a successful VE Session.

Behind The Magic Curtain [PDF]

Keywords: VOLUNTEER EXAMINER, VE, VEC, ARRL VEC, W5YI GROUP, LAUREL VEC, NCVEC, TEAM LEADER, SESSION MANAGER, EXAM

Getting a FCC FRN

Posted November 22, 2021

The FCC has taken steps to upgrade its data processing systems. You almost certainly will be affected by this update. Read about updating your information in the FCC CORES system and in the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS).

How Do I-Getting An FRN [PDF]

2021-1115-Applying for an FRN-2 [PDF]

Keywords: FCC REGISTRATION NUMBER, FRN, COMMISSION REGISTRATION SYSTEM, CORES, UNIVERSAL LICENSING SYSTEM, ULS, FORM 605

GMRS, FRS, CB

Posted November 07, 2021

Today’s article describes and compares the various Radio Services. Radio hobbyists sometimes begin with one of these services and soon recognize the added potential that an Amateur Radio License can provide. In that sense, GMRS, FRS, and CB can be stepping stones to an Amateur Radio hobby.

How do I GMRS FRS CB [PDF]

Keywords: GENERAL MOBILE RADIO SERVICE, GMRS, PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO, PLMR, CITIZENS BAND, CB, FAMILY RADIO SERVICE, FRS

Updating FCC Info to have your eMail Address

Posted July 04, 2021

The FCC now requires all licensed Amateur Radio Operators to have a valid eMail address as part of their FCC Licensing System Registration Number profile.
This How Do I…? article describes how you can do that. It is easy-peasy.

HowDo I Add eMail Addr to FCC ULS

Keywords: x

The FCC and Code of Federal Regulations Part 97

Posted Month DD, 20YY

If you ever are called upon to research the regulations that govern Amateur Radio this is a good place to begin. Learn how… from an expert.

How Do I – FCC Part 97 [PDF]

Keywords: CFR, FEDERAL REGISTER, TITLE 47, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, TITLE, VOLUME, CHAPTER, PART, SUBPART

Renewing My FCC License

Posted March 12, 2024

Renewing your FCC Amateur Radio License requires you to have an up-to-date account in the FCC CORES system and the FCC LICENSE MANAGER system. This article provides step-by-step procedures for getting the job done.

Renewing My FCC License [PDF]

Keywords: RENEW, CORES, ULS, LICENSE MANAGER, FCC, PAYMENT,

Technician License Exam

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Studying for the Technician License Exam. This is the first level of Amateur Radio Licensing.

Part of the How Do I… series.

Study for the Technician Exam [PDF]

Keywords: x

I Have My Technician License

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Congratulations — you received your license. Here are some thoughts on what you can do to get started in Ham Radio.

Part of the How Do I… series.

New Technician License [PDF]

Keywords: x

What Do I Do Next?

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Here are some ideas about what you might keep in mind when looking for a ham radio transceiver. A radio is the key to enjoying the privileges granted by your new Amateur Radio License .

Part of the How Do I… series.

What Do I Do Next? [PDF]

Keywords: x

Many Flavors of Ham Radio

Posted Month DD, 20YY

The author of this article describes 28 different special-interests in the Ham Radio hobby. Some are technical. Some are social. Part 1 of 2 parts.

Part of the How Do I… series.

Flavors of Ham Radio [PDF]

Keywords: PUBLIC SERVICE, RAG CHEWER, DX’ER, CONTESTER, BUILDER, PREPPER, LEADER, COLLECTOR

More Flavors of Ham Radio

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Here in Part 2 of 2 parts, the author of this article continues what was started in Part 1. The second half of the 28 Ham Radio special-interests are described.

Part of the How Do I… series.

More Flavors of Ham Radio [PDF]

Keywords: SCOUT, CW BUG, SPECIALIST, ARMCHAIR HAM, MOBILE OPERATOR, ORGANIZER, TECHNICAL EXPERT, EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, SPORT VEHICLE ENTHUSIAST, EXPERIMENTER, QRP’ER

It’s What You Make It

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Ham Radio shares some concepts with Gardening or Farming. You will reap what you sow. Read about the ways in which you can enjoy the hobby.

Part of the How Do I… series.

It’s What You Make It [PDF]

Keywords: x

The Reluctant Ham

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Insight on why some people study, pass the Amateur Radio License Exam (for job-related reasons) and then miss out on what the hobby has to offer.

Part of the How Do I… series.

The Reluctant Ham [PDF]

Keywords: PUBLIC SERVICE, FIRST RESPONDER, NATURAL DISASTER, LOST CHILD, PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

Upgrade to General Class

Posted Month DD, 20YY

Information describing the next level of Amateur Radio Licenses — General Class — and why you might consider upgrading your license.

Part of the How Do I… series.

Upgrade to General Class [PDF]

Keywords: UPGRADE, PRIVILEGES, FUN, STUDY GUIDE, ELMER

Failed Exam. Now What?

Posted Month DD, 20YY

It’s only a test. Don’t let a failed exam keep you from enjoying Ham Radio. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the next exam session.

Failed Exam-Now What [PDF]

Keywords: ACCOMMODATION, SPECIAL NEEDS, QUESTION POOL, PRACTICE TESTS