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Interested in becoming a ham?
Ham Radio Operators must be Licensed Just like driving a car, you need to take a test to get your license. ham licenses are good for 10 years and are renewable. You don't have to be a genius to get your ham radio license. Before you can get on the air, you need to be licensed and know the rules to operate. Federal Communications Commission regulates the airwaves so that everyone had a fair shot at using them, and as a result, a licensing system was devised for all of the various governmental, military, commercial, and personal uses of the spectrum. In the US there are three license classes issued by the Federal Communications Commission; you start as a Technician, progress to General and then Extra Class Amateur radio operator. Each license level has more privileges, but they do come with additional knowledge requirements. Getting your license requires passing an FCC examination on radio theory, regulations and operating practices. Just be aware in the US, operating a radio transmitter without a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is illegal, and can lead to fines, equipment seizure, and even imprisonment. There are a few exceptions, such as Family Radio Service (FRS) for family and group activities, using hand-held radios similar to walkie-talkies and certain low-power consumer devices; garage door openers, Wi-Fi transmitters and Bluetooth radio devices. Technician Class License: In order to obtain this entry-class license, you need to get at least 26 questions correct on a 35-question exam that is taken from a pool of over 400 questions. This license class allows most operations at frequencies which allows communications locally and around the country. General Class License: The General license also requires 26 correct answers on a 35-question exam that is taken from a pool over 500 questions. You need to pass your Technician license before taking the General. This license class allows the licensee to operate on all amateur radio bands and most modes which opens up worldwide communications. Amateur Extra Class License: Extra class license holders have earned all privileges on all bands and modes which allows communications worldwide and is recognized internationally. You need to pass your Technician and General licenses before taking the Extra exam. This class of license has the most difficult exam that requires at least 37 correct answers out of 50 questions that are taken from a pool of over 700 questions.Starting your journey
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