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To get an amateur radio license, you must:

• Register with the FCC and get an FCC Resistration Number (FRN). (See the FRN Info page.)
• Pass one or more multiple-choice written tests.
• Pay a $35 application fee to the FCC. (See the Application Fee Info page.)

Almost everyone may get a license. The only restriction is that you cannot be a representative of a foreign government. There are no age restrictions.

Currently, the FCC grants three classes of amateur radio licenses: Technician, General and Amateur Extra. Each class of license confers different privileges for the licensee.

Licenses are granted for a term of 10 years, and can be renewed without re-testing anytime from 90 days before expiration until 2 years after expiration. (NOTE: An expired license is not valid and cannot be used to operate an amateur radio station.)

For more details on earning a license, see the document "How to Get a New Amateur Radio License".

For more details on upgrading your license class, see the document "How to Upgrade an Amateur Radio License".

When you pass an exam or qualify for a new or upgraded license, you will receive a Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination (CSCE) which will indicate the exam elements passed and/or the license class earned. A CSCE is valid for 365 days from the date it was issued.

After you pass an exam to earn a new amateur radio license, you will receive an e-mail from the FCC with your application file number and instructions on how to pay the application fee. You will also receive an e-mail from the Laurel VEC with your file number and instructions on how to pay the fee. You will need the file number to be able to pay the fee.

When an application is granted, the FCC will notify each applicant by e-mail. The e-mail will include a link that will allow the licensee to view, download, and print an official copy of their license.

Many VE teams charge a fee to administer an examination or for other licensing services. This fee is determined by the Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) that is coordinating that team's sessions. Teams coordinated by the Laurel VEC do not charge a fee for administering any examination or for any other licensing services.