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How to Obtain an FCC License

The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) is the government agency responsible for regulating the use of the radio frequency spectrum in the United States for the purposes of wireless communication, broadcasting and long-distance remote control. The FCC has assigned certain frequency bands in the radio frequency spectrum to specific broadcast uses. To legally use these frequencies for broadcast purposes in the U.S., you have to (in many cases) secure a license from the FCC.

Things You'll Need

Internet access
Money for fees

Instructions

- 1
  Determine which kind of license you need. The type depends on what you intend to broadcast. For example, if you want to engage in radio communication as a hobby, you need an amateur (ham) radio license; to operate a long range walkie-talkie among your family, you need a General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) License. If you want to operate a radio system on a ship, you may need a maritime mobile license. Television and radio stations are also required to obtain special licenses from the FCC.
- 2
  Research the requirements for the type of license you want. Different licenses have different requirements. To obtain an amateur radio license, for instance, you must pass a test. Television and radio stations must demonstrate their ability to carry out technical requirements involving broadcast transmitters and antennas.
- 3
  Go through the steps necessary to satisfy the requirements needed for the license you want.
- 4
  Register with the FCC's Universal Licensing System to submit your license application online for wireless services. Register with the FCC's Media Bureau CDBS electronic filing system to submit your license application online for a broadcast station. Or, if you'd prefer to submit your application by snail mail, go to the FCC's form page. Find the form you need for the type of license you want and print it out. Fill out the form and mail it in along with the appropriate application fee.

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