Getting Started
New to Ham Radio?
Someone helped me get started. This page is my way of passing that along: the path from curious to on the air.
1. Get licensed
In the US there are three license classes. Each is a multiple-choice exam drawn from a public question pool. No Morse code required.
All of VHF/UHF (local repeaters, simplex, satellites) plus some HF privileges on 10 m and CW on a few HF bands.
Opens up most of HF: worldwide contacts on voice, CW, and digital modes.
Full privileges on every amateur band, plus access to shorter vanity calls.
Study
- HamStudy.orgFree flashcards and practice exams with explanations for every question.
- ARRL: Getting LicensedOverview of license classes, study guides, and the licensing process.
- HamExam.orgQuick practice tests from the current question pools.
Take the exam
- Find an exam sessionIn-person and online sessions run by volunteer examiner teams.
- FCC CORES / FRNRegister for an FCC Registration Number before your exam.
Protect your privacy from day one
Your license record is public, including the mailing address you give the FCC. Before you register, consider using a PO box or other mailing address instead of your home. You can update it any time in the FCC's licensing system.
2. Your first radio
Most new Technicians start with a dual-band (2 m / 70 cm) radio to get on local repeaters.
- Handheld: cheapest way in. Add a better antenna than the stock one; it makes a big difference.
- Mobile rig: more power and range, in the car or at home on a power supply with an outside antenna.
- Program it: find nearby repeaters with RepeaterBook, and learn to set offset and CTCSS tone. Software like CHIRP can program many radios from a computer.
Tip: an antenna upgrade usually helps more than more power.
3. Get on the air
- Check into a net. Local repeater nets are built for this and are the friendliest place to make a first contact.
- Join a club. Clubs are the fastest way to find an Elmer, borrow gear, and learn by doing. Search the ARRL club finder.
- Try Field Day. Every June, clubs set up portable stations for 24 hours. Visitors are welcome and often get to operate.
4. Where to go next
- Solar and band conditionsQuick read on which HF bands are open.
- PSKReporterSee where your digital signals are being heard, live.
- WSJT-XFree software for FT8 and other weak-signal digital modes.
- Logbook of The WorldConfirm contacts electronically for awards.
- My NVIS projectAn example of a first antenna experiment, from model to on-air results.
A word on Elmers
The best resource isn't a website. It's a person. Find an experienced ham who'll answer your questions, and someday return the favor. Here's why that matters to me.