How do I get involved in ham radio?
Get Involved
- What is Ham Radio? Get started!
- Learn. Check-out ARRL training resources and publications.
- Youth. Find resources and connect with other young radio amateurs.
- Social Media. Check out what ARRL members are saying, follow us…
- Clubs.
- Hamfests and Conventions.
- Donate.
- The ARRL Foundation.
How can I join Ares?
ARES: You can register as an ARES volunteer simply by filling out the form and mailing it to the ARRL. You also need to join a local ARES team to participate in training and exercises. The easiest way to find out about the ARES organization in your area is to contact your ARRL section manager.
How much does it cost to become a ham radio operator?
According to the FCC Report and Order released December 29, 2020, Amateur Radio license fees will now cost $35. This same fee will apply to new licenses, renewal licenses, and vanity call signs.
Do you need a license to be a ham radio operator?
Amateur radio is regulated in the United States by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). If you transmit on amateur radio frequencies without a license or break the Part 95 rules, you could be subject to massive fines. For example, some individuals have been fined as much as $17,000 for intentional interference.
Do ham radios work without electricity?
Ham can use High Frequency (HF) bands, which are the best bands in a major SHTF emergency because they can easily reach hundreds of miles without depending on anything (or anyone) else. Ham has more power. Other forms are limited to 0.5 – 4 watts.
What is the difference between races and ARES?
ARES is activated before, during and after an emergency. RACES, on the other hand, almost never starts before an emergency and is active only during the emergency and during the immediate aftermath if government emergency management offices need communications support.
What does ARES races stand for?
The Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES). These services consist of licensed amateur radio operators who are trained to provide radio communications services to civil and government agencies in times of emergency.
What happens if I use GMRS without a license?
Although the max power has been increased to 2 watts on these “bubble-pack” radios for GMRS channels(per FCC 2017), IT IS STILL ILLEGAL to transmit on GMRS channels WITHOUT a license. THE FINE IS 20K FOR EACH TRANMISSION ON A GMRS CHANNEL.
Is a GMRS license worth it?
You can get a GMRS license for around $70 that is good for five years from the FCC. This license is good for you and your family. One license covers all of you, regardless of location. So other than being legal, getting a license is easy and the reason to get one can be summed up in a few words.
How hard is the ham radio extra exam?
For the Extra exam, it’s very difficult to remember 700 correct answers, but it’s impossible to also remember all 2100 incorrect answers. Look for patterns in questions and answers. See examples below. Learning these types of patterns and strategies can make acing the tests much easier.
Can you get in trouble for using Ham radio?
Operating a Ham radio in the ham bands without a license and ID is illegal, and is subject to several laws, and can bring forfeiture of around $10,000 and your radio equipment. It can also buy you jail time.
Where can I find a volunteer radio examiner?
If you want to locate a Volunteer Examiner (VE) to administer an operator license examination to you or to file other applications for you, such as an application for renewing your license, change of address, or change of name, or if you are an amateur radio operator and would like to be accredited as a VE, Contact any of the VECs below
Who are the Volunteer Examiners ( VEs ) for the FCC?
VECs coordinate the efforts of Volunteer Examiners (VEs) in preparing and administering amateur service operator license examinations. The coordinating VEC screens collected information, resolves all discrepancies, and forwards all required data to the FCC electronically.
What are the different classes of radio license?
For individuals entering the amateur service, or upgrading their license operator class, there are three classes of license, each authorizing privileges corresponding to the qualifications required. The classes of license, from highest to lowest are: Amateur Extra Class, General Class, and Technician Class.
Do you have to be an ARRL member to join Ares?
Every licensed amateur, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization is eligible to apply for membership in ARES. Training may be required or desired to participate fully in ARES. Please inquire at the local level for specific information.