Preparation

Here are a few things to help you with the preparation for exam day. While not strictly required, having the following items filled out and completed will save you time on the exam. Due to the stress on exam day, you are less likely to make errors on them if you bring them with you.

Study, whether taking a class or studying the question pool.

Get your FRN (FCC Registration Number) at the FCC ULS website. If you do not already have one, click register to get one. If you already have an amateur radio license you can find the FRN on your license or log in to the ULS site to get it. Important Note: If you already have an FRN you must use it or there will be delays in processing your paperwork.

Register at ham.study

If you pass the exam you came for, you are eligible to take the next level exam that same day for no additional charge.  If you fail the exam you came for by one or two questions, you may take another version of the exam for another $15 test fee.

Now that your preparation is complete, let’s get ready to take the exam.

Bring the following with you to the test session:

  • $15 Exam fee.
  • Proper identification, preferably a picture ID with your signature. (Normally applicants provide a driver’s license or student ID).
  • If you have a CSCE or credit from a previous license, we must see the original. Plus we need a photocopy to send in with your exam results.
  • If you are applying to have a long-expired license reinstated, we need proof of your old call sign and license class. We need a copy to send in with your application. For help in finding this proof, contact the exam team leader.
  • A laptop computer or tablet may be used. (It will need to be cleared with the VE Team) Please ensure that your device is up to date and verify that you can get to exam.tools DO NOT try to log in past the initial screen. If you do not get the landing page that looks like the below example, your device will not work for the exam.

  • You may bring a calculator as long as the memory can be flushed before you take the exam. Calculators within PDAs and cell phones may not be used.

For more information please visit the ARRL website.