How to Pass the Amateur Radio License Exam the First Time

The test for the entry level license is not hard. People as young as 5 years old have become licensed ham radio operators. The most popular license for beginners, is the Technician Class license, which requires only a 35 question multiple-choice test. The test covers basic regulations, operating practices, and simple electronics theory. It is written with the beginner in mind. Morse code is no longer a requirement for any class of ham radio license.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Just a sincere desire to get your license and some time

1. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the operation of all equipment that uses radio waves to communicate. This includes amateur radios (ham radios), AM and FM radios, televisions, cell phones, cordless phones, police and fire department radios, etc. In order to operate a radio in the Amateur Radio Service you have to take and pass a test for the FCC to show that you understand something about how radios work and what the rules are to operate a ham radio. Don't worry, it's not as hard as it may sound. Keep reading.

2. A good way to learn the material needed for the exam is to go to a series of classes held by a local ham radio club. Usually the classes are free or at a nominal cost except for the cost of a study book. Go to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) and click on "Clubs" to find a club in your area. Then contact the club to see when they are running the next beginners class. (See Resources below.)

3. Some people have been able to pass the test just by reading a book about ham radio, or studying a published license manual, or even going online and reading sample questions and answers. Books about studying for your ham radio license as well as license manuals are often sold at stores like Radio Shack, or your local book store. Stop in and ask. Books are also available at the ebay, Amazon, and W5YI websites (See links below).

4. Last, if you know of any ham radio operators in your town, call them or find out where they live and knock on their door. Ask them if they know of any local classes coming up or if they would have the time to help you learn what you need to know to pass the test. You might be surprised...hams are usually very friendly people.

5. Look for my other article titled "How to learn the right steps to take the amateur radio license exam". It will explain how to register with the FCC, how to find an exam session, and more.

Tips & Warnings

• If you decide to take a class, sign up for that first because you will need to use the book they are using.
• Make sure any license manual you buy is the current version, published not earlier than July 1, 2006. This manual should be valid until June 30, 2010.

Resources

• American Radio Relay League
• eBay US
• Amazon
• W5YI
• Ham Radio Scene

[Tfurby]

on 12/29/2008 Great info, thanks!