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How to Get an FCC Tech License

Amateur (or ham) radio is a popular hobby with people around the world. Ham radio operators also perform valuable services, especially during emergencies, when they can relay information to and from a stricken area. In the United States, amateur radio is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission under the Communications Act of 1934. The entry-level license required to be an amateur radio operator is the technician class license. After earning a FCC tech license you can work to get the more advanced licenses offered by the FCC.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn what a FCC tech license means. The basic license allows you to use any of the frequencies on 17 bands in the 50-plus megahertz (MHz) range. In addition, you can transmit on 4 amateur service bands in the 3 to 30 MHz range. With an FCC tech class license you are limited to a transmission power of 1,500 watts.
- 2
  Study to take the FCC tech license exam. You must know the basic regulations, practices for operating a ham radio transceiver and electronics theory as it applies to VHF and UHF radio. Check the links under Resources for information about books, online classes and practice tests. There is only one eligibility criterion: You cannot work for a foreign government.
- 3
  Arrange to take the technician class exam. Although the exams are regulated by the FCC, they are administered by volunteer organizations such as the American Radio Relay League. You must get 26 of 35 questions on a multiple-choice exam correct to get an FCC tech license. As of 2006, applicants were no longer required to know Morse code. Licenses are issued for 10 years.
- 4
  Begin preparing to upgrade your technician class license. Two advanced licenses are available to amateur radio operators. You have to have the preceding license or licenses to be eligible to take the test for the next one. The next step up is the General Class License, followed by the Extra Class License. Each requires a written multiple-choice exam and similar study (though of more advanced material). The Morse code requirement was dropped for the advanced licenses as well.

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