You need to pass a written test administered by volunteer examiners, then register with the FCC

A ham radio license comes from passing a multiple-choice exam on radio theory, regulations, and operating practices. The test is given by volunteer examiners (usually ham radio operators themselves) at testing sessions held in most cities and towns. After you pass, you register with the FCC, which issues your call sign and license. The whole process typically takes two to eight weeks from test day to receiving your call sign, depending on how quickly the examiners submit your paperwork.

There are three license classes in the United States: Technician (entry-level, covers local and some long-distance communication), General (broader frequencies and modes), and Extra (all frequencies and modes). Most people start with Technician. Each class requires passing its own test, and you can take them in order or skip ahead if you pass a harder exam.

Key Takeaways

  • The Technician license requires passing a 35-question multiple-choice test covering radio basics, FCC rules, and safe operating practices.
  • Volunteer examiners hold testing sessions in most areas; you find them through the ARRL (American Radio Relay League) or the VEC (Volunteer Examiner Coordinator) websites.
  • You pay a testing fee (usually $15 to $20) directly to the examiners, not to the FCC, and the FCC does not charge for the license itself.
  • After passing, examiners submit your test results to the FCC, which issues your call sign within two to eight weeks.
  • You can operate legally once you receive your call sign from the FCC, even if your physical license document has not arrived yet.

Finding a Testing Session Near You

The easiest way to find examiners is through the ARRL website (arrl.org), which has a searchable database of testing sessions by state and date. You can also search by VEC name—the major ones are ARRL VEC, W5YI-VEC, and Laurel VEC. Each VEC maintains its own list of sessions, so if one site does not show sessions in your area, try another.

Most sessions are held monthly in libraries, community centers, or ham radio club meetings. You do not need to register in advance for many sessions, though some require you to sign up a few days ahead. Call or email the examiner listed on the session notice to confirm they have space and to ask what to bring.

What to Study Before the Test

The Technician test covers 35 questions drawn from a public question pool of about 400 questions. You study the same pool that the test comes from, so there are no surprises. The test covers radio theory (how antennas and transmitters work), FCC regulations (what frequencies you can use, how to identify yourself), and safe operating practices (electrical safety, RF safety).

Free study materials are available online: the ARRL publishes the official question pool, and websites like HamStudy.org and eHam.net offer practice tests that mimic the real exam. Most people study for two to four weeks and take several practice tests before sitting for the real one. You need to score 74 percent or higher (26 out of 35 questions correct) to pass.

What to Bring to the Testing Session

Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or military ID), a pen, and a calculator if you want one (though the test does not require much math). Some examiners provide scratch paper; others ask you to bring your own. Do not bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing room.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or FCC Registration Number (FRN) at the session. If you do not have an FRN, the examiners can help you get one on the spot—it takes a few minutes and is free. Bring cash or a check for the testing fee, which ranges from $15 to $20 depending on the VEC.

How the Test Works on the Day

You arrive 15 minutes early, sign in, and show your ID. The examiners give you the test (usually on paper, though some sessions use computers), and you have 35 minutes to answer 35 questions. You mark your answers on a sheet or screen, then hand it in. The examiners grade it on the spot and tell you whether you passed within a few minutes.

If you pass, the examiners fill out a form with your information and test results. They keep a copy, send one to the FCC, and give you a receipt. That receipt is proof you passed and can be useful if there is a delay in the FCC processing your paperwork. If you do not pass, you can usually take the test again at the next session, often the same day if the examiners offer multiple test windows.

After You Pass: Getting Your Call Sign

The examiners submit your paperwork to the FCC within a few days. The FCC then processes it and assigns you a call sign, which appears in the FCC database. You can check the FCC's Universal Licensing System (ULS) website to see when your call sign has been issued—this usually takes two to eight weeks, though it can be faster.

Once your call sign appears in the ULS database, you are licensed to operate. You do not have to wait for a physical license document to arrive in the mail. Your call sign is your proof of license. The physical document (a certificate) comes later and is not required to operate, though many operators frame it.

Moving to General or Extra License

After you have your Technician license, you can study for the General exam (71 questions) or the Extra exam (50 questions). General gives you access to more frequencies and longer-distance communication modes. Extra gives you access to all amateur frequencies and is the highest class.

You take the General and Extra exams the same way as Technician—through volunteer examiners at testing sessions. You can take them at the same session if you want to test for multiple classes in one day. Many people get their Technician license, operate for a few months, then upgrade to General.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a ham radio license cost?

The FCC does not charge for the license itself. You pay the testing fee to the volunteer examiners, which is typically $15 to $20 per test. Some examiners waive the fee for youth or financial hardship, so ask if that applies to you.

Can I use my call sign before the physical license arrives?

Yes. Once your call sign appears in the FCC database (which you can check on the ULS website), you are licensed to operate. The physical certificate comes later and is optional—your call sign in the database is your proof of license.

What if I fail the test?

You can take it again at the next testing session, which is usually within a month. There is no limit to how many times you can test. Most examiners let you retake the test the same day if another session is running, though you pay the fee again.

Do I need to know Morse code to get a ham radio license?

No. Morse code was required for higher license classes until 2007, but it is no longer required for any U.S. ham radio license. The Technician, General, and Extra exams are all written tests with no code requirement.

Can I get a ham radio license if I have a criminal record?

The FCC does not disqualify applicants based on criminal history. You must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien to hold a license, and you cannot have an FCC license revoked within the past five years, but a criminal record does not prevent you from getting a ham radio license.