Serving the Bay Area Since 1958
Everything you need to know about getting your amateur radio license
Getting started in amateur radio is easier than you think! The entry-level Technician License opens the door to the exciting world of ham radio.
You can communicate locally, access repeaters, operate on VHF/UHF bands, and even make contacts via satellites and the International Space Station!
The Amateur Radio Service is governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under 47 C.F.R. Part 97. This regulation outlines how the service operates in the U.S. While it is a comprehensive resource, it might not be the best starting point for beginners.
The FCC allocates twenty-nine small frequency bands throughout the spectrum for amateur use. To access these frequencies, you need a license. There are three license classes:
Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of operating rules and basic radio technology.
Entry level license with VHF/UHF privileges, repeater access, and digital modes.
Adds HF bands for long-distance communication worldwide.
Full privileges on all amateur bands and frequencies.
Since 1984, the FCC has delegated exam administration to the National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC). They manage the exam content, organized into elements:
Each exam consists of 35 questions selected from a public pool of over 400 questions. No surprises - the pools are available online at the NCVEC website.
We recommend these free study resources:
Most students pass after 2-4 weeks of study!
The Technician license grants access to VHF/UHF bands and some HF privileges. You must answer at least 26 of 35 questions (74.29%) to pass.
ARRL Ham Radio License Manual - 4th Edition is a comprehensive guide published by the ARRL, the largest amateur radio association in the U.S.
QRZ.com Practice Tests offer free online practice exams. Create an account to track progress. Aim for scores over 90% before taking the real test.
Apps like the free one by Roy Watson (N1ZTL) on the Google Play Store and Apple Store provide mobile practice tests and progress tracking.
The exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions. You need to answer 26 correctly (74%) to pass.
Exams are administered by volunteer examiners. The exam fee is typically $15.
You'll need your FRN (FCC Registration Number) before taking the exam.
The San Bruno Amateur Radio Club gives a class several times a year. To get notified when our next class will be complete the form located on the San Bruno Amateur Radio Club site.
Some groups offer same-day study and testing events. Check local clubs or the ARRL site for upcoming sessions.
Traditionally, tests are held in-person by local groups like the San Bruno Amateur Radio Club or via the ARRL Test Locator.
Before taking any amateur radio exam, you must obtain an FRN (FCC Registration Number) from the FCC.
Get your FRN at: FCC CORES System
It's free and takes just a few minutes. You'll use this number for all your FCC applications.
Remote exams have become popular. You will meet three Volunteer Examiners (VEs) via Zoom, take your test on a secure website, and may be asked to show your testing area with a second webcam. Screensharing is required so VEs can monitor the exam process. Results are processed immediately, and you may be invited to take the next-level test if successful.
Consider preparing for both Technician and General exams to take advantage of testing opportunities.
San Bruno Amateur Radio Club offers free Technician License classes to the community!
Our classes meet weekly for 6-8 weeks and cover everything you need to pass the exam. No previous electronics experience required.
Sign up for our next class or check our schedule for upcoming sessions.
Tip: Online sessions fill up quickly. Reach out to VE teams for waiting list opportunities. Some teams like AA7HW VE Team are very accommodating to motivated learners.
Amateur radio opens up a world of exploration, community, and emergency communication. Study well, take the test, and we will see you on the air!