FAQ & Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does it cost to take an exam, and what should I bring with me to the exam session?

It costs $5 to take an exam. Cash only (no checks or credit cards) and we kindly ask for $1 or $5 bills. Please see the What To Bring page on this site for for additional information.

This cost is in addition to (separate from) any fees the FCC charges to process license applications, renewals, etc. More information about FCC fees can be found here.

How can I download an Official Copy of my license?

Step by step instructions for downloading Official Authorizations from ULS can be found on our web site here.

Where can I learn more about the new FCC Felony Conviction question starting Sep 7, 2017?

Additional information about the new FCC Felony Conviction question can be found on our web site here.

Where can I find Amateur Radio license rules and information online?

FCC Title 47 -> Chapter 1 -> Subtitle D -> Part 97 (frequently referred to simply as "Part 97") can be found on the US Government Publishing Office web site. Part 97 - Amateur Radio Service

I don't live in the Milwaukee, WI area. How can I find an exam session near me?

There are a number of VEC groups that administer Amateur Radio exams. Click this link Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (VECs) to see a listing of all VEC groups and links to their web sites.

The ARRL and W5YI VECs offer the ability to search for exam sessions on their web site. ARRL Exam Search and W5YI Exam Search We also suggest attending a ham radio club meeting in your area.

Local hams are a great source of information ("Elmering") and can help you find the closest exam sessions. Search Google for "amateur radio" or "ham radio" and your location (or a larger town/city nearby) to find nearby ham radio clubs.

How do I check if an Amateur Call Sign is available?

The FCC has detailed information about Amateur Call Signs on the FCC website, including how to search for available Vanity Call Signs and how to file a request for a Vanity Call Sign.

Does the FCC have documentation on their website to help me perform tasks and activities related to obtaining and renewing Amateur licenses, etc.?

Yes. Click on the following link to see a list of Knowledge Base topics on the FCC website.

I'm going to take my Technician Class exam and I haven't registered for my FRN number yet. The exam session is only a few days away. Should I register for my FRN before the exam session?

Yes. You should register in FCC CORES and also obtain an FRN number prior to attending an exam session.

If you have an Amateur Radio License and are testing to upgrade your license, you likely already have a FRN (it's on your license). If you have a FRN number on your license, do not register for an additional FRN number. You should only have one FRN number.

The FCC has provided a tutorial video on how to register for an FRN at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7a4doKEPN5M You can register for your FRN here: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do

What is an FRN?

An FRN, or FCC registration number, is a 10-digit number that is assigned to all businesses and individuals conducting business with the FCC. You can register for a FRN number and update your information on the FCC "CORES" (COmmission REgistration System) web site at https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do

This includes updating your address if you move. More information is available on the Universal Licensing System (ULS) Help Page.

My license is going to expire soon. Can you help me renew it?

Amateur Radio licenses may only be renewed within 90 days of the license expiration date. The best way to renew your license is via the FCC ULS web site - click on the Login button to the right of "ONLINE FILING" (renewal help).

The ARRL created a YouTube video that walks you through how to renew your license online here.

Alternatively, you can stop by one of our test sessions and complete a form. Make sure you bring your picture ID and a copy of your current license. We accept a photocopy of your current license or a FCC Reference Copy or a FCC Official Copy of your license. We'll be happy to renew your license for you. Either way, there's no fee to renew your license.

My license has expired. How do I renew it?

If your license expired less than two years ago, renew your license is via the FCC ULS web site - click on the Login button to the right of "ONLINE FILING" (renewal help). If your license expired over two years ago and is beyond the grace period we have additional information on the Expired Licenses page of our site.

I didn't pay my FCC fee in time (within 10 days of application date with the FCC). What do I do?

First, you need to withdraw your application in FCC ULS. We have detailed instructions on how to do this here. After you successfully withdraw your application in ULS, please send an email to mracvec@gmail.com to request your application be re-submitted. Be sure to include your name, callsign (if you have one), FRN number and the date you took your exam in the email message.

I'd like to volunteer my time and help. How do I let you know I'm interested in becoming a VE?

It's great that you're interested in joining our team and assisting with exam sessions. Please express your interest by sending us a message through the Contact Us form on this site. At minimum, we require that you hold a General Class license, with an Extra Class license being preferred. You must also be licensed for a minimum of two years. Please note that our VEC is completely separate from other VECs and unlike some other VECs we don't have a "fast track" program. Don't worry, the process to become a VE and join our team is not terribly difficult or time-consuming.

I'd like to obtain a new Club Station Call Sign or make changes to my Club Station Call Sign. Can you help me?

Unfortunately, we cannot help with Club Station call signs. You must contact a Club Station Call Sign Administrator (CSCSA). There are three CSCSA's - ARRL, W5YI and W4VEC. The ARRL maintains a good FAQ regarding Club Station Call Signs here. Here is a link directly to the ARRL Form 605-C that you need to complete and submit to the ARRL.