An amateur radio license opens the door to global communication, technical experimentation, and emergency preparedness. DCARC’s volunteer examiners can test you locally — and we’re happy to help you study.
The Three License Classes
Technician — Entry Level
The Technician class is your gateway into amateur radio. It grants full operating privileges on all frequencies above 30 MHz, including the 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands used by club repeaters, plus limited HF privileges on 10 meters. A 35-question written exam is required; no Morse code.
General — Worldwide HF Access
The General class unlocks the majority of HF (shortwave) frequencies, making worldwide voice, digital, and image contacts possible. Requires a 35-question written exam plus an existing Technician license.
Amateur Extra — Full Privileges
The Amateur Extra class grants access to every frequency allocated to US amateurs, including exclusive Extra-only sub-bands where HF congestion is lower. A 50-question written exam plus a General license is required. It’s the top — and final — level.
Free Study Resources
Every exam question is drawn from a published question pool — everything you need to study is freely available online.
- HamStudy.org – browser and mobile app using spaced repetition so you study what you need, not what you already know
- HamExam.org – full simulated exams with detailed answer explanations for each question
- QRZ.com Practice Exams – quick browser-based practice tests, no account required
- KB6NU “No Nonsense” Study Guides – concise, readable PDF guides for all three classes; free download (donations welcome)
- ARRL Licensing & Education – official license manuals and licensing support resources from the national organization
Schedule an Exam
DCARC’s Volunteer Examiners (VEs) hold test sessions periodically throughout the year. Contact us to find the next session or arrange one.
VE Liaison
Matt Keck · KE8YDW
(419) 553-6976
Walk-ins for scheduled testing sessions are welcome, but contacting us ahead of time ensures we have the required materials on-hand to issue your exam. Bring a government-issued photo ID and your FCC FRN. There is no fee for the exam, but donations to the Defiance County Amateur Radio Club are welcome. (Note that the FCC does charge a $35 license application fee.)
To obtain your FRN, please visit the FCC CORES website.