New HAM Training Center
Any person looking to enter into the exciting world of HAM radio is required to take and pass a HAM license exam. If you are within driving distance to the Belmont County E.M.A. office, you can schedule and take your exam there. They are offered once each quarter during the year as needed. To see available exam dates and schedule your exam, please click HERE.

Why should you get a HAM license?
Before you can get on the air, you need to be licensed and know the rules to operate legally. US licenses are good for 10 years before renewal and anyone may hold one except a representative of a foreign government. In the US there are three license classes—Technician, General and Extra.

 

The Technician class license is the entry-level license of choice for most new ham radio operators. 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. It also allows for some limited privileges on the HF (also called “short wave”) bands used for international communications.

 

The General class license grants some operating privileges on all Amateur Radio bands and all operating modes. This license opens the door to world-wide communications. Earning the General class license requires passing a 35 question examination. General class licensees must also have passed the Technician written examination.

 

The Amateur Extra class license conveys all available U.S. Amateur Radio operating privileges on all bands and all modes. Earning the license is more difficult; it requires passing a thorough 50 question examination. Extra class licensees must also have passed all previous license class written examinations.

 

Resource to study for your Ham license:
Study and practice for your HAM license for FREE!
What should you do prior to exam day, and what do you bring to your exam?
If you would like to find all exam locations you can use the A.R.R.L. website:
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