Amateur radio unlocks worldwide communication, technical exploration, and vital public‐service roles. In the United States, the FCC regulates amateur licenses under Part 97. The Technician Class license is the fastest way to get on the air—here’s how to earn yours, what you can do with it, and where to go next.

Studying for the Exam

The Technician exam (Element 2) is 35 multiple-choice questions on FCC rules, operating practices, and basic electronics (Ohm’s Law, components, circuits). You must answer at least 26 correctly to pass. Top study aids include the ARRL’s Ham Radio License Manual and free practice tests at HamStudy.org or QRZ.com. Many local clubs also run live prep classes—find one via the ARRL’s Club Finder.

Taking the Exam

Volunteer Examiner (VE) teams administer tests nationwide. Locate a session through the ARRL’s Exam Session Search or the W5YI VEC locator at w5yi.org. Bring a valid photo ID, your FCC Registration Number (FRN) from CORES (https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/), a completed FCC Form 605 (provided by the VE team), pencils, and the exam fee. You’ll often learn your pass/fail status immediately; the FCC will post your new license in the Universal Licensing System (ULS) within 1–2 weeks.

Applying with the FCC

Once you pass, log into the ULS License Manager (https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp) with your FRN to view and print your call‐sign authorization. The current FCC application fee is $35 for a 10-year amateur license .

Technician Class Operating Privileges

Band, Amateur Band,

Technician licensees have full privileges on all amateur bands above 30 MHz, including VHF and UHF:

• 2 meters, 1.25 meters, 70 cm, 33 cm, and microwave bands
• All modes: FM, SSB, CW, and digital (DMR, D-STAR, System Fusion, APRS, packet, FT8)

On HF (below 30 MHz), Technicians may use CW, RTTY, and other digital modes in designated segments, plus voice (SSB) on the 10 m band. This lets you experiment with weak‐signal work and catch Sporadic-E openings when conditions permit.

Exploring Technician Class Modes

• Repeaters: Stationary base stations extend your range from a few miles to 20+ miles—ideal for nets, ARES/RACES events, and rag‐chews. Find local systems via RepeaterBook.
• Digital Voice & Data: Access D-STAR, DMR, and System Fusion networks through repeaters or personal hotspots (e.g., Pi-Star). Enjoy clear audio, text messaging, and GPS features.
• Weak‐Signal DX: Use FT8, WSPR, or CW on 10 m and above to contact stations worldwide with modest power.
• APRS & Packet: Send real-time positions and messages over VHF for mobile tracking and event communications.
• Amateur Satellites: Operate through low-Earth-orbit OSCARs and even the ISS via VHF/UHF digipeaters.

Next Steps: General & Amateur Extra

When you’re ready to expand your HF privileges and access all modes on all bands, consider upgrading:

• General Class (Element 3 exam) unlocks most HF phone and digital segments.
• Amateur Extra Class (Element 4 exam) grants full access to every amateur band and mode.

Each upgrade is a 35-question test (no Morse code) that opens new operating horizons.

Getting on the Air

Choose your first rig—a dual-band handheld or mobile transceiver—and program local repeaters using CHIRP or manufacturer software. Join your local club for mentorship, attend weekly nets to practice on‐air etiquette, and log contacts in ARRL’s Logbook of the World for awards. The world is not enough!

Resources & Links

• ARRL Get on the Air: http://www.arrl.org/get-on-the-air
• ARRL Club Finder: http://www.arrl.org/find-a-club
• FCC Part 97 Rules: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97
• FCC ULS License Manager: https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp
• FCC CORES Registration: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/

With a Technician Class license, a wealth of amateur‐radio adventures awaits—neighbors to DX, emergency nets to satellite chats, and much more. 73 and be safe!