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Your path to a US ham radio license. One multiple-choice test, a free FCC registration and a $35 fee. No Morse code and no minimum age.
- Study. Take free practice tests for the Technician exam until you pass every time. Use the 2026 to 2030 question pool.
- Get your FRN. Register free with the FCC on its CORES website and note your 10-digit FRN.
- Find an exam. Sign up for a session with a volunteer examiner team, in person or online. Fees are small, and some are free.
- Pass the test. 35 multiple-choice questions. Get 26 right and you pass.
- Pay the FCC. When the FCC emails you, pay the $35 fee in CORES.
- Get on the air. Your call sign appears in the FCC’s license database. Once it’s there, you can transmit.
Key terms
- FRN: your free FCC Registration Number.
- VE: a volunteer examiner, a licensed ham who gives exams.
- Question pool: the public list every exam question comes from.
- ULS: the FCC’s license database, where your call sign appears.
Good to know
- You don’t need to be a US citizen, but you need a US mailing address.
- Kids take the same test as adults.
- Bring a photo ID and your FRN to the exam.
- Many exam teams let you try the General exam the same day you pass.
In short: Study, get your FRN, pass one test, pay $35, and watch for your call sign.
Checked October 2026 against FCC Part 97 and the FCC’s licensing pages.
