Become a Ham
How to Become a Licensed Amateur Radio Operator
Practice Exams
The links below are sites where you can take practice exams for the Technician, General and Extra class Amateur Radio licenses.
Taking The Test
When you’re ready to take the FCC License Exam, GEARS can administer the license exams and is one of only fourteen amateur radio clubs in the USA directly authorized by the FCC. If you’re not sure you’re ready, try a free online practice test, links above.
The October 1st exam will be given at the Butte County Library on 1108 Sherman Ave in Chico, October 1st, 2023, at 2PM.
When you’re ready to take the FCC License Exam, GEARS can administer the license exams and is one of only fourteen amateur radio clubs in the USA directly authorized by the FCC. If you’re not sure you’re ready, try a free online practice test, links above.
Call the GEARS VEC, Tom Rider, W6JS; at 1-530-893-9211. You must make a reservation for the October 1st GEARS testing session.
Before going to the test secession you must have an FRN number & a current email address. To obtain an FCC FRN number go to: “FCC Registration–Login”. Fill out the information it is requesting. Bring a copy of your FRN number & your current email address to the test session.
GEARS VEC Test sessions for 2023.
October 1st, December 3rd.
The Question Pools.
The question pool for each new license level changes every four years. Be sure to study from the correct ARRL study guide and question pool.
Question Pool Longevity
Technician: July 1st 2022 to June 30th 2026
General: July1st 2023 to June 30th 2027
Extra: July1st 2020 to June 30th 2024
What to bring to the test session.
The cost of the exam is $15.00. You can take more than one exam for the same cost. Two forms of identification. One must be a photo ID, driver’s license, state ID card, school ID, or passport. A number 2 pencil, and a black ink pen.
You may bring a calculator, however memories must be cleared before the exam session starts. If you have taken the exam previously, bring your Certificate of Successful Completion (CSCE).
If you are upgrading to a higher class of license, bring a photocopy of your current license
After Passing the Test
Tests are checked for a passing score immediately after being completed, and candidates are informed whether they passed or not. If you do not pass, the volunteers will return your application to you, and no record is kept.
After you pass your exam, the Volunteer Exam Coordinator will upload your license application directly to the FCC over the internet. New licenses are usually processed by the FCC within 48 to 72 hours, and you will receive a call from a GEARS volunteer by Tuesday or Wednesday to give you your new call-sign. You will also be given information on how to check your FCC Registration Number (FRN), how to register for the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), and how to obtain an official printed copy of your license.
Other Local Volunteer Teams.
Yuba-Sutter Amateur Radio Club: http://ysarc.net/ Contact LeRoy Smith, KJ6DKM landussmith@att.net
Redding VEC: http://www.reddingve.com/
Let’s work together
We are committed to serving our communities, and welcome new opportunities to do so. We are available to–and frequently–provide radio communication support for community activities such as: bike races, charity walks, and other local and regional public events.
