Free VE Testing

Amateur radio licenses are issued by the FCC, and require passing a test. Tests are administered by Volunteer Examiners (VE).

Update for January 2022. Due to the Jan 1 holiday, tests will be held on Jan 15th this month only!

See you at PJ Klems


Study for Your Exam

There are a lot of resources to help you study for the exams. Your local library may be a good source; but beware - tests are updated every three years, and libraries may have out-of-date books. Here are some online resources:

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Exam Schedule

The 220 MHz Good Guys ARC support the efforts of the VE Test Team. The 220 MHz Good Guys support but is not responsible for the testing.

We are an independent group that conducts Amateur Radio License exams, the first Saturday of the month at P.J. Klems. the Club currently has a formal V.E. Test Team & Program that is financially separate & self-sufficient.

The 220 MHz Good Guys ARC are associated but not responsible for testing.

Tests are given on the first Saturdays. Due to lack of candidates and COVID-19 issues we’ve gone from two to three per month to once a month.

If interest picks up we will go back to 1st, 3rd and 5th again. If you can’t make it on the first Saturday, contact Steve, WB9DSQ at +1 (708) 257-4438 or membership@wm9w.org to schedule a special session for other Saturdays.

What to Bring

  • Yourself - after some study.

  • A photo ID

  • An email address.

  • If you don't already have a license:

    • You need to obtain a FRN (FCC Registration Number). You can obtain one at https://apps.fcc.gov/cores. We can help you do this at the session, but it’s better to get your FRN in advance.

  • If upgrading an existing license, bring your original and a copy.

  • If you have a Technician class license issued before 3/21/1987 you can upgrade to General class without taking a new test. See http://www.arrl.org/exam-element-credit for details.

  • Testing with the 220 MHz Guys VE Testing Team is free, no fee required! The FCC is proposing to charge a fee for Amateur radio licenses and upgrades. This has not yet gone into effect, so for now it’s totally free. (As of August 2021.)

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Once You've passed

If this is your 1st Ham Radio License you'll need to wait for the FCC to issue your license and call sign. Your new license will usually be available at the beginning of the week after you complete your test.

The FCC does not automatically send you a paper license!  You can check for your new license at the FCC's Universal Licensing System.

If you're upgrading to a General, or Extra, you can start using your new operating privileges.

The 220 MHz Guys V.E. Testing Team are a Laurel VEC testing team. Unlike most other VECs, Laurel tests are free and results are submitted electronically, for fastest time to get your license.

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