How to Get Your License

Amateur Radio is fun and getting your Amateur Radio license has never been easier. In 1992 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) dropped the Morse Code requirement for the entry-level or Technician license. Now all you have to do is pass a 55 question written exam. The test is straight forward and even children as young as 4 years old have managed to pass it (with considerable coaching from their parents of course.) While the 4 year old test takers are the extreme it still shows that anyone can pass if they set their mind to it.

The test covers basic some basic radio and electronics theory along with questions about the rules and regulations of operating on amateur radio frequencies. It is similar to just knowing how to operate a motor vehicle when you study for your drivers license. It covers things that you will need to know to operate your radio on the Amateur Radio bands. There will be 55 questions and each is taken out of a question pool of 550. The best part is that the questions and answers are all made public so you won't have to wonder what will be on the test. Study guides are available from several vendors including the ARRL and Universal Radio

Below are a few sample questions that could be on the test. These are not actual questions, but they will give you some idea what kind of questions there are. While they may appear to be rather difficult, keep in mind that you get to study for as long as you like and take the test only when you are ready. There are test sessions offered locally on almost a monthly basis. To find out times and locations contact your local amateur radio chapter. Find a local club here.

1. What is the maximum PEP output for a transmitter operating on 52.375 MHz?

• 15 watts
• 75 watts
• 200 watts
• 1500 watts

Answer: While it may seem to be a lot, the actual Peak Emission Power in the 6 meter band is 1500 watts. Most stations need only use only 50 watts or less to make contacts all over the country when the band is open.

2. What frequecies can a licensed Technician class Amateur Radio operator transmit on the 2 meter band?

• 143.625 - 148 MHz
• 144 - 148 MHz
• 145 - 149 MHz
• 142 - 149 MHz

Answer: A Technician class operator can operate between 144 and 148 MHz on the 2 meter band. There are some questions you just have to memorize and this is one of them. Two meters is a very popular band used primarily for local communications.

So that's the scoop! Amateur Radio is fun so why not study and take the test? You no longer have to learn Morse Code to get your license. Taking the test is simple. They even give you the questions and answers ahead of time. If you have problems with any of it there are many people around that can help you through it.

This page last updated 11/18/2006