This is a brief note on where you all can go to start on your path to an FCC Technician’s License.
The Technician is the basic license required to legally transmit on Ham Radio frequencies. The LRCSD has standardized on Ham Radio for on and off-road communications.
Why not CB? Ham radio prices are quite comparable if not cheaper than CB these days due to the lack of demand for CB. Additionally, Ham Radio offers significantly better range and audio quality.
Preparing for your Exam
In all cases, whether you use an app, books, tapes, or video to learn about the Technician’s Exam, there are several free online practice exams that cover the whole range of possible questions on the exam. Whether you’re taking the exam in person, or virtually, it’s important that you are consistently passing practice exams at least 80% of the time prior to attempting the real thing.
Here is a basic summary: How to Get Your Ham Radio License in 3 Simple Steps (hamradioprep.com)
The Ham Radio Outlet store in Kearny Mesa has several guides you can use. I used both study books and online practice tests to get ready for my first license in 2008.
eHam.net I liked this eHam.net test. It worked for me. I was able to take practice tests during my lunch hour while at work with ease. There are several others available.
ARRL Exam Review for Ham Radio™ is another study resource run by the Amateur Radio Relay League (ARRL).
HamStudy.org offers great smartphone apps for exam prep. You’ll have access to exam questions and practice tests, even when you’re offline.
Taking the Certification Exam
GLAARG VEC & SANDARC Both organizations offer virtual and in-person exams.
Exam fees are waived for the following: minors (17 years and under), students with a current ID (24 and under), active military, veterans, and GLAARG VEs upgrading to Extra. For all others, the exam fee is only $10, payable via Pay Pal.
For virtual testing, you have to have a computer with a video camera and microphone for instructions and observation during the exam.
Dennis Yard
N1TEN
Club Secretary
