About Amateur Radio

What is Amateur Radio

When cell phones, regular phones, the internet and other systems are down or overloaded, Amateur Radio still gets the message through.  Radio amateurs, often called “hams,” enjoy radio technology as a hobby. But it's also a service –a vital service that has saved lives when regular communication systems failed (ARRL).


How do I become licensed?

You can take your test in-person or online.  The tests are quite easy with a little studying.

Check Hamstudy.org and the ARRL for exam sessions near you! 

There is an FCC fee of $35 (payable to the FCC) and a testing fee between $10 and $15 depending on testing organization.  In the Los Angeles Area GLAARG and ARRL are popular options.  GLAARG's well run sessions in particular are are a very fast and effective to get licensed if one has studied well for the exam.


Recommended Study Method (by Noji Ratzlaff)