Become a HAM
Interested in Amateur Radio? Let’s Get Started!
Welcome to the exciting world of amateur (ham) radio! Whether you’re interested in emergency communications, connecting with people around the world, experimenting with technology, or simply learning something new, there’s a place for you in this hobby. Getting started is easier than you might think! The first step is learning a little about amateur radio and preparing for your FCC Technician Class license exam. Once you’ve passed your exam and received your call sign, you’ll be ready to get on the air! Along the way, local amateur radio clubs are a great resource for guidance, encouragement, and hands-on experience. You don’t need any previous radio experience or expensive equipment to begin, just curiosity and a willingness to learn. We’re excited to help you take that first step!
Amateur radio is what you make of it! It’s a hobby with endless possibilities, something different for everyone, and opportunities to learn, explore, and build lifelong friendships along the way.
From talking to people around the world and experimenting with radios and antennas to emergency communications, public service, contesting, satellite communications, and finding hidden transmitters through fox hunting, there is always something new to discover.
So, where do you begin? Talk to other amateur radio operators! Ask questions, learn about their experiences, and discover what they enjoy most about the hobby. Many operators have been involved in amateur radio for decades. Some may take a break along the way, but the hobby often remains a lifelong passion.
One of the greatest things about amateur radio is the community. We build friendships, share knowledge, help one another, and continue learning together. You don’t have to know everything when you start, and you don’t have to learn it all at once. Take your time, try different activities, discover what interests you, and most importantly, have fun!
Joining an amateur radio club is a great way to get started. Experienced operators are often eager to share their knowledge, demonstrate their equipment, answer your questions, and help you find your place in the hobby.
Here at the Johnson County Amateur Radio Club (JCARC), we’re passionate about promoting amateur radio and helping newcomers begin their journey. Our members are ready to listen, answer questions, share their experiences, and help you discover the many opportunities amateur radio has to offer. We also provide local classes to help you learn the fundamentals and prepare for your FCC amateur radio license examination.
Whether your interest is making contacts around the world, building and experimenting with equipment, serving your community through emergency communications, or simply making new friends, there’s a place for you in amateur radio.
Your journey is yours to create. We’ll be glad to help you get started!
Come visit the Johnson County Amateur Radio Club and discover why so many people call amateur radio the best hobby in the world!
FCC Licensing
Before you can get on the air, you are required to have an FCC license to operate legally. You need to know the rules of operation, and proper radio etiquette before you start transmitting. There are no age requirements; If you can pass the exam, you can be licensed! You will have the ability to talk with people not only in your local area, but in other countries, and in space (the ISS)! Once you have your license, it is easy to maintain, and renews every 10 years.
There are three levels of licensing; Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. Technician is the entry-level license, and requires passing an exam consisting of 35 questions on radio theory, regulations, and operating practices. This class gives access to all Amateur Radio frequencies above 30 megahertz, and some limited privileges on HF. You will need to pass the Technician class exam before you can take the exam for General. General class grants some operating privileges on all Amateur Radio bands and operating modes. The Amateur Extra class license gives all operating privileges (all bands and all modes) that are available for Amateur Radio use. You will need to have passed all previous license class exams in order to hold an Amateur Extra class license.
Classes and Exams
It is highly recommended that you attend a class to prepare yourself for the licensing exam. Classes are not required, but you may find it easier to learn the material in a classroom environment. Attending classes also can often give you the ability to gain hands-on experience with the equipment. Classes and Exam Sessions are held frequently by local clubs and other ARRL-affiliated organizations. If you are interested in joining one of our classes or attending an exam session, contact us! You can also click the link below to find other classes and exam sessions happening in the area.
Not sure yet?
You’re not required to have a license to join us during our meetings or at our events. The best way to get started is to come see what we do, ask questions, and even get yourself on the air (with the assistance of a licensed control operator). Getting involved is the best way to learn and gain the experience necessary to pass the licensing exams. You’re also welcome to ask us questions, we would be happy to talk with you regarding the hobby. Check out our calendar for upcoming events or head over to our Contact Us page to reach out.