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How to Get an FCC Operator's License

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issues a variety of radio communication licenses. The basic operator's licenses are those for amateur ("ham") radio operators. The requirements for commercial and other licenses are more stringent, but follow the same general procedures. There are three types of basic FCC operators' licenses: technician, general class, and extra class. These are popular with people who are radio hobbyists. In times of emergency, these operators performer a vital service by maintaining communication with stricken areas. Many people also use ham radio licenses as a way to gain experience as they prepare to qualify for commercial licenses.

Things You'll Need

Practice tests
Study books and materials

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare for the entry level (technician) exam. To get a FCC operator's license you must be knowledgeable about electrical theory as it applies to radio, operational procedures, and FCC regulations governing radio operation. You can get books, practice tests, and use online resources from organizations like the American Radio Relay League (link below under Resources).
- 2
  Get an FCC operator's license by taking the required written exam through the American Radio Relay League or other amateur organization. These groups administer the exam on behalf of the FCC. The exam is a written 35 question test, and you must get 26 of the multiple choice questions correct. Once you earn a technician license, it is valid for 10 years and is renewable. As of 2006, the FCC dropped the requirement that applicants know Morse code.
- 3
  Start working on your skills and build your knowledge to earn more advanced FCC operators licenses. The general class and extra class FCC operator's licenses each require a written test. The Morse code requirement was also dropped in 2006 for these licenses. You must earn each of the three licenses in order (from technician to extra class).
- 4
  Understand what an operator's license allows you to do. The technician license allows you to transmit on 17 frequency bands in the 50 Megahertz and above range. You may also use 4 service bands in the 3-30 Megahertz range. However, you are restricted to using radios of no more than 1500 watts of transmitting power. More advanced licenses allow you to use more frequencies and transceivers of greater power.

Ham Radio