Amateur Radio License Testing

Get your amateur radio license or upgrade your current one with our VE team

Upcoming Exam Sessions

DSARC offers regular testing sessions for all license classes. Our volunteer examiners are certified by the Laurel VEC.

Upcoming Exam Sessions

What to Expect

What to Bring

  • Photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.)
  • FCC Registration Number (FRN) - How to get an FRN
  • Copy of your current license (if upgrading)
  • A calculator with the memory cleared (if desired)
  • Pencils and scratch paper will be provided

License Classes

  • Technician: Entry-level license, 35 question exam
  • General: Intermediate license, 35 question exam
  • Amateur Extra: Top-level license, 50 question exam

You must pass each license class exam in sequence, but you can take multiple exams in one session.

Study Resources

Prepare for your exam with these helpful resources.

HamStudy.org

Our top recommendation! Excellent free study tools online, with a paid app that's worth every penny. Highly rated by our past test participants.

HamBook.org

Comprehensive reference materials and study guides for amateur radio operators of all levels.

KB6NU Study Guides

Popular "No-Nonsense" study guides for Technician and General licenses.

ARRL Resources

Official study guides, practice exams, and training resources from the ARRL.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to take the exam?

Our testing sessions are free of charge. However, upon passing your first exam, you will need to pay the FCC a $35 application fee for a new license. There is no FCC fee for license upgrades or address changes.

How long does the testing session take?

Plan for about 2 hours total, though the actual time may vary depending on how many exams you're taking and how many other candidates are present.

When will I receive my license?

After passing your exam, your information will be submitted to the FCC. For new licensees, once you pay the FCC application fee, your license should appear in the FCC database within a few business days. You can then look up your callsign in the FCC ULS database.

What if I fail the exam?

If you don't pass, you can retake the exam at another session. We encourage you to continue studying and try again. Many people pass on their second attempt after focusing on the areas they found challenging.

Have more questions?

Contact our VE team here or join us at a club meeting to learn more about amateur radio licensing.