HAM License Process

Decide which element you are chasing and map out realistic study sessions.

• Technician can be completed in 3–4 weeks of 30–45 minutes/day. General usually requires 6–8 dedicated weeks.
• Pair printed manuals (ARRL, Gordon West) with HamStudy.org, Ham Radio Crash Course, or W5YI video series so you hear the content explained multiple ways.
• Schedule at least two full-length practice exams per week and note the question pools that fall below 80%.

Every applicant must have a Federal Registration Number (FRN) before testing.

• Use the FCC CORES site (apps.fcc.gov/cores) to create a username/password and capture your 10-digit FRN.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (text or authenticator app) so you can log in quickly after the exam.
• Store the FRN in your radio notebook and password manager—you will reuse it for upgrades and renewals.

Choose an OBARC in-person session or an accredited remote option.

• Email testing@w5obm.com to reserve a seat at our monthly Volunteer Examiner (VE) session in Olive Branch.
• Prefer remote? ARRL VEC, W5YI, and GLAARG all offer webcam-supervised exams. Plan extra time for tech checks.
• Exam fee: $15 (ARRL VEC). The FCC also charges a $35 application fee for new Technician licenses, payable online after you pass.

Arrive early, stay calm, and bring the right paperwork.

Watch your inbox after the exam.

• VE teams submit paperwork within 24 hours; you will receive an email confirmation.
• New Technicians: log into CORES and pay the $35 fee within 10 days or the application will expire.
• Once your call sign appears in the ULS, print the reference copy and store it with your station documents.

Use your new privileges immediately so the knowledge sticks.

• Check into OBARC nets, monitor SKYWARN activations, and log every QSO for the first 30 days.
• Set an upgrade target date and let the mentoring team know how we can help.
• Volunteer at public-service events to translate book knowledge into real-world communication skills.