Learning how to get a Ham radio license can be confusing. But having one can be extremely useful during times of emergency and distress. We’ve simplified things. Here’s what you need to know.
Quick Explanation of Benefits
Here is a quick explanation of ham radio classes and their benefits. This information will help you decide which class to pursue.
You have three classes of ham radio licenses:
- Technician Class License (Basic)
- General Class License (Advanced)
- Amateur Extra Class License (Expert)
Technician Class License
The Technician Class License requires taking a 35 question test on basic information on amateur radio. It is the entry-level license for operating a basic ham radio.
Benefits of this license class:
- Communicate when internet and phone lines are down
- Help out in times of emergencies and distress
- Greater privileges operating drones
- Communicate over longer distances than a CB radio
- Operate a repeater station to stay in touch with other “hams”
General Class License
The General Class license requires taking a 35-question test on more advanced information to do with operating a ham radio. It grants more ham radio privileges.
Benefits of this license class:
- All benefits of Technician Class
- Communicate on all digital frequency modes
- Connect on HF bands below 28 Mhz
- Communicate internationally over the 20-meter band
- Participate in more ham radio contests
- Administer amateur radio exams
- More equipment experience and operating privileges
Amateur Radio License Class
The Amateur Radio license class (amateur extra license) requires taking a 50-question test on complex information to do with operating a ham radio. It grants even more ham radio privileges.
Benefits of this license class:
- All benefits of Technician Class
- All benefits of General Class
- Communicate on HF frequencies set aside only for this class (higher amateur radio frequencies)
- Can administer all three exams (Technician, General, and Amateur)
How to Get a Ham Radio License
It is easy to get a ham radio license. Here are the steps.
- Study for the Technician class general exam (novice license). There are courses you can take online to prepare.
- Find a testing center near you or one that lets you take the test online. A good reference is the ARRL website.
- Set up an appointment to take the 35-question multiple-choice test. It costs $15 minimum to take the exam.
Note: Take the General Class test next if you want to receive those benefits. Then take the Amateur Extra License to receive full privileges. Each test is more difficult, requiring more training.
Side Note: You don’t need to know morse code to pass any of these tests. We do recommend learning morse code though, it is useful to know.
Bottom Line
Per FCC regulations (Federal Communications Commission) you must be licensed to operate a ham radio (amateur radio).
The three classes of license are:
- Technician License (entry-level license)
- General Class License (licensees have more operating privileges)
- Amateur Extra Class Licenses (advanced class license)
Amateur radio operators start by getting a technician license with limited privileges, then become general class licensees after passing a general class exam, and can then become an amateur operator by taking the Amateur Extra License (for advanced class licensees who have taken Amateur Extra Classes).
Tests are proctored by volunteer examiners. The in-person tests are written examinations. We recommend taking an online course to learn what you need to know to pass the amateur ham radio operators exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a ham radio license cost?
A ham radio license costs $15
Is it hard to get a ham radio license?
It can be difficult to obtain a license, but there are tutorials online that can help.
Can I get my ham radio license online?
Yes. Currently, the rules have been relaxed on amateur radio service qualifications and you can get your ham radio license online for all radio license classes. But, you need to go to an FCC-approved testing location online.
Do I really need a ham radio license?
A license is required for operating amateur radio, alias ham radio, according to the FCC for operating privileges.
Can a ham radio be traced?
A ham radio (amateur radio) can be traced, but it is difficult.
Can I use a ham radio without a license in an emergency?
Yes, you can use ham radio in an emergency. You do not need a license in order to transmit in the event of an emergency, though it is recommended that you obtain one.
Do ham radio licenses expire?
Yes, ham radio licenses expire. They are good for 10-years. They must then be renewed.
How far can ham radio reach?
Different factors affect how far ham radios can reach. Ham radio can reach as far as the signal can travel through the air. The average reach is 50 miles or less.
Can a ham radio talk to a CB radio?
Yes, ham radios (amateur radio) can talk to CB radios.
How far can a 5-watt ham radio transmit?
The answer to this question will be dependent on many factors, including the type of antenna being used, the power of the transmitter, atmospheric conditions, and the distance to the receiver. A 5-watt amateur radio will usually transmit to about 5 miles out.