This is definitely the most asked when I tell people that I have a HAM radio for adventuring and survival. It is a 5-step process in getting the FCC Amateur Radio Technician Class (Level 1) license.
- Get an FRN (FCC Registration Number) if you don’t already have one for paying for your GMRS license. You will need this to schedule the exam at some locations, and you will need this when you take your exam. This is not your callsign, but a number assigned by the FCC that pertain to your licenses (Amateur Radio, GMRS, etc.). https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
- Study for the FCC Amateur Radio Technician license exam. There are many ways to do this and below are a few.
- Phone Apps for Android and iOS: Ham Exam Prep, Ham Radio Prep
- Web Sites: https://hamstudy.org
- Instructor Led: You may find these from local ham radio clubs.
- Find a testing site and schedule an exam. http://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session
- Successfully pass the exam and receive your CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination) form.
- Wait a few days and visit the FCC site here to see if you have been assigned a callsign so you can pay for the 10 year license ($35). This is the same site and login information as the one created when you acquired your FRN. https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
Once the payment is made, within a week or sooner (I usually get an email the next business day), the payment will reflect in your FRN account, print the license, keep the wallet copy in your wallet, and you are good to go. Remember, to set a calendar event to make the payment for $35, or whatever amount it is in 10 years, from the date you passed the exam.
