For about $25, you can take the Ham Radio Prep course online — you'll start with the Technician's license. Pass the test and wait to receive your license and call sign.Jan 4, 2021
Do I really need a ham radio license?
With ham radio, you own the hardware AND the software, which gives you a direct line of communication when needed in case of an emergency. Important caveat amateur radio is regulated by the FCC, so you still have to get your license and follow all the rules while using amateur radio!
How long does it take to study for the ham radio test?
The Ham Test Online web site estimates that it will take 10 hours to study for the Technician exam, 20 hours to study for the General exam, and 30 hours to study for the Amateur Extra exam.
How much does it cost to get started with ham radio?
The lowest starting point is around $100. This will buy you a basic low power short distance radio and cover the cost of your ham radio license exam and study books. Second-hand equipment is perfect at this stage and a shortwave transceiver and a simple antenna could be less than $400.
Is it hard to get a ham radio license?
Getting a ham license is not that difficult. My two sons both passed the Technician test in the early 1990's when they were about 8 and 10 years old. Both of them also passed the 5 word per minute code test which used to be a requirement if you wanted to operate in the HF bands.
How long does it take to get my ham radio callsign?
The applicant will know immediately the FCC has received the request and that the application was completed correctly. After submitting the application form, you will receive an FCC application file number. The FCC takes 18 days to process applications for vanity call signs.
Can I take my ham radio test online?
HamTestOnline™ does not administer the amateur radio exams. To obtain or upgrade a ham radio license, you must attend an exam session administered by a Volunteer Examiner (VE) team. The good news is that most people don't have to travel far. In fact, some VE teams will administer your ham radio exam online!
How hard is it to get your ham radio license?
It's the most advanced and most difficult to obtain. The passing rate for this exam is 74% which means you need to answer 37 questions correctly. This license will give you access to all available U.S. ham radio operating privileges on all modes and all bands.
How long does it take to get your ham radio license?
The entry level Technician License Exam requires around 10 hours of study for most people. The Technician and General License exams each have 35 questions, and the Amateur Extra has 50. In order to pass the each test, you must get at least a 74%.
How do you get a ham license?
To earn the Technician license requires passing one examination totaling 35 questions on radio theory, regulations and operating practices. The license gives access to all Amateur Radio frequencies above 30 megahertz, allowing these licensees the ability to communicate locally and most often within North America.
How much harder is General Than technician?
General class - slightly harder test, more privileges While Techs are limited to 200 watts on HF, Generals can transmit with up to 1,500 watts PEP on the HF bands. That's a lot of power! The biggest incentive for upgrading from Tech to General is the increased HF privileges.