Author: Fred Glenn

A Ham Radio Fable … once upon a time… .

In the quiet town of Springdale, Wisconsin, where technology often played second fiddle to tradition, lived a young man named Alex. Growing up surrounded by smartphones and instant messaging, he was drawn to the allure of technology. However, it was not the flashy apps or the latest gadgets that captured his imagination; it was the subtle whisper of radio waves, the hum of electronics, and the promise of connecting with the world through ham radio.

Continue reading “A Ham Radio Fable … once upon a time… .”

How to get a license

1. Understand the License Levels

  • Technician: Entry-level, grants access to VHF and UHF bands.
  • General: Allows access to more HF bands.
  • Extra: Grants access to all amateur radio bands.

2. Study for the Exam

  • Technician License: Study materials typically cover basic electronics, radio theory, and operating procedures. Books, online courses, and practice exams are available.
  • General and Extra Licenses: More advanced study is required, including deeper technical knowledge and operating rules. Resources like the ARRL (American Radio Relay League) provide study guides and practice tests.

3. Find a Testing Location

  • Exams are administered by Volunteer Exam Coordinators (VECs). You can find test sessions through local amateur radio clubs or on the VEC websites. The ARRL VEC, W5YI VEC, and other organizations can help you locate a testing session near you.

4. Register for the Exam

  • Check the testing schedule and register for a test session. Some VECs allow you to register online.

5. Prepare Required Documents

  • Photo ID: A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport).
  • FCC Registration Number (FRN): If you don’t already have an FRN, you can get one by registering on the FCC’s website. You’ll need this for your application.

6. Take the Exam

  • Arrive at the testing location on time. The exams are typically multiple-choice and administered in a proctored setting. You’ll need to pay a small fee, usually around $15.

7. Receive Your Results

  • Results are usually provided on the same day. If you pass, your exam paperwork will be sent to the FCC for processing.

8. Wait for Your License

  • The FCC will process your application and issue your license. This can take a few weeks. You’ll receive your call sign and license details via email or postal mail.

9. Start Operating

  • Once you receive your license, you can start operating on amateur radio frequencies. Make sure to follow all regulations and operating practices.

Additional Tips:

  • Join a Club: Local amateur radio clubs can offer support, resources, and community.
  • Use Online Resources: Websites like QRZ.com and the ARRL offer valuable information and tools.
  • Stay Updated: Regulations and procedures may change, so keep an eye on updates from the FCC and amateur radio organizations.

Good luck with your journey into amateur radio!