How to Become a Ham Radio Operator
Between the help offered by local clubs, the many Ham books available for purchase, and the freely available resources on the Internet, there is a wealth of information out there to get you started. There are three Amateur Radio classes: Technician, General, and Extra. Each class has its own multiple choice test that must be passed in order to attain that license. You will probably want to start at the entry level class, Technician, although you could take all three tests in one day and get your Extra license. The difference between the three Amateur Radio classes is the amount of radio spectrum you are allowed to use. As a licensed Technician Operator, you will have plenty of spectrum to play around in. You will be allowed to use voice communications, Morse code, and digital packet (using a computer to type your messages to other people, similar to an Instant Messenger).
So, where to start? First, buy a book. A book will teach you the exact information needed to pass the exam. Next, join a local Ham club. Joining a club will give you hands-on help, experience, and equipment recommendations.
Book Recommendations: Learn the Technician Class Learn the General Class Learn the Extra Class Find a Local Ham Club Ham Radio Club Search
You have your book (and read it cover to cover) and you've possibly joined a club. Now what? Take some online practice tests to prepare yourself for the real thing! These online tests are identical to the actual tests you will face.
Amateur Radio Practice Exams QRZ Practice Exams
You're now ready for the real test. If you're here in the Orlando area, LMARS offers testing, as well as LARA and the OARC. Scroll down this page for testing dates, times and locations.
Useful Resources More information on Amateur Radio. Locate a testing location near you.
Types of Amateur Licenses and Privileges
Technician Class
The Technician Class is where most Hams begin. This class allows you to work on the VHF and UHF amateur radio frequencies. Modes include voice (FM & SSB), Morse Code, and digital modes. All that is required to attain this license is the passing of a written exam.
General Class
With the General license, you are allowed the use of all modes and bands in the amateur spectrum except for a few small band segments reserved for the last class.
Extra Class
The Extra class is the highest amateur radio license you can obtain. The written test is the most difficult of all the license exams. With this license, in addition to the privileges allowed by the other classes, you are allowed the use of a small segment of each of the HF bands that is set aside specifically for Extras.
Testing Sessions
Test sessions for amateur radio are administered by volunteer examiners. A few points to remember:
- Arrive on time for the session
- Have 1 legal photo ID (or 2 legal non-photo ID's - Social Security Card, birth certificate, work permit, utility bill)
- Bring the $14 required for the testing/processing fee
- For upgrades: Bring your original CSCE, License, and a copy of your License
If you take a class the test may be given in-class. If you are upgrading your license or have completed some part of a previous test be sure to bring copies and the originals of your current license and CSCEs.
LMARS Testing
The Lake Monroe Amateur Radio Society conducts bi-monthly amateur radio exams for all elements on every odd month (January, March, May, etc.) on the fourth Saturday at the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office off of 17-92 on 100 Bush Blvd. in Sanford, across from Flea World. Be there at 9:15AM. For more information and registration contact James Williams, N4ZKT at 407-333-4245.
LARA Testing
Third Saturday of each month at the Lake Amateur Radio Association in Tavares on Highway 473, one mile from US 441, at 9:30AM. There is a talk-in available on frequency 147.255 MHz. For more information contact Paul Branch, K3NON, at tavflapaul@yahoo.com.
OARC Testing
OARC will give ARRL tests on the first Wednesday of each month at the Beardall Senior Center at the corner of Gore and Delaney. Be there at 5:30PM. Contact Hal, KK1B, at (407) 365-2444 or kk1b@arrl.net for details.