Welcome, future ham! If you have ever wondered how people talk around the world with a radio, or how volunteers help out in emergencies, you are in the right place. This page explains how to get your amateur radio license, what to study, and what happens after you pass.
The Three License Levels
- Technician: the entry-level license. A 35-question multiple-choice exam covering basic rules, operating, and safety. It gives you access to VHF and UHF bands — great for local repeaters — plus some HF privileges.
- General: the next step, opening up most HF bands so you can talk around the country and the world.
- Amateur Extra: the highest level, with access to the full amateur spectrum.
How to Study — Free Tools
You do not need to buy a course to get started. Free study guides and practice exams walk you through the exact question pool, so there are no surprises on exam day. Study a little each day, take practice tests until you pass comfortably, and then book your exam.
Taking the Exam
Exams are run by volunteer examiners, in person or online, and usually cost only a small fee. Bring a photo ID and your FRN from the FCC (you can register for one free on the FCC website before the exam). Pass, and your call sign is usually issued within a few days — then you are officially on the air.
Your First Radio
Many new hams start with a simple handheld radio for local repeaters, then add a mobile or base station as their interests grow. You do not need expensive gear to begin — borrow, listen first on our Listen Live page, and ask local hams what works well in your area. Elmers (experienced hams who mentor newcomers) are one of the best parts of the hobby, so do not be shy about asking questions.
Welcome, New Hams! — Live Lists
Below are live lists of newly licensed hams, maintained by K4KNJ (Sam) from public FCC ULS data and updated weekly. See a new call sign from your town? Look them up on QRZ and give them a warm welcome on the air — a friendly first contact means a lot.
New Hams in South Carolina
New Hams in North Carolina
New Hams in the USA
Lists courtesy of K4KNJ — Sam’s welcome-new-hams lists, built from public FCC ULS data and updated weekly. If a list does not load here, open it directly on k4knj.com: South Carolina, North Carolina, USA.