Getting Started

Licensing

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates the Amateur Radio Service and the licensing of operators. There are three classes of licenses in the United States. The advantage of the higher-class license is that more operating frequencies and modes are available for use. Testing is provided by Volunteer Examiners who are approved to administer and grade the tests. The results are then forwarded to the FCC and the appropriate license will be issued. More about Licenses

Vanity Call Signs

Once you have become a licensed Ham operator, you may decide you wish to have a different call sign. The reasons for Vanity call signs are as varied as the operators who choose them. My original General Class call was WA6HHN. While this was just fine, there were way too many 'dits' for CW contesting (-…. …. …. ), which is the 6HH portion!! I changed to my present call of WT6P, which not only varies the characters, but is easy to say on SSB; "Whiskey Tango Six Papa", great for contesting!

If you decide to change your call, you will first need to check out the available call signs that are available as Vanity call signs by the FCC. N4MC's Vanity HQ is a great single source to see what call signs are available now or in the future (once they expire and have been dormant for 2 years). Another easy to use site is AE7Q for Extra class vanity call signs, should you hold or upgrade to Extra class.

You may apply for a vanity call sign through the FCC directly from the Web. Best of luck on your choices, I hope what you want is available.

Test Preparation

There are several ways to prepare for your first Ham License. The first method involves purchasing a Study Guide. While there are many published guides, I suggest purchasing one from the ARRL. The price is about $20 and the title is "Now You're Talking! All You Need to Get Your First ham Radio License". Studying on your own is fine, if you feel you understand the material thoroughly, but you may feel more comfortable in a classroom environment. Many Ham Clubs offer study classes that take you from beginning to end, getting you ready to take your test! Local Ham clubs can be looked up on the ARRL Affiliated Clubs page. You will also find volumes of valuable information on licensing, testing and the necessary forms on the ARRL Licensing, Education & Training page.

Above all, when you are taking your practice tests or the actual test at a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator session, be calm! Your study questions will be, in part, what you see on the test. If you have carefully reviewed and can answer the study questions, you should have no problem getting 'Your First Ham License'.

Key Terms & Q-Codes