T1C

Licenses, call signs and renewal

Which classes exist, how call sign groups work, when you may transmit, and how long a license lasts.

11 pool questions1 on the exam

Syllabus: Licensing: classes, sequential and vanity call sign systems, places where the Amateur Radio Service is regulated by the FCC, name and address on FCC license database, term, renewal, grace period, maintaining mailing address; International communications

Three classes are issued; anyone can go vanity

Any licensed amateur, of any class, may request a vanity call sign.

The FCC issues Technician, General and Amateur Extra. A vanity call sign is a call you choose yourself: any licensed amateur may request one.

RememberTechnician, General, Extra. Vanity: any licensee.

Count letters to spot a call sign group

Count the letters before and after the number.

Group D is two letters, a number, then three letters.

Licenses: transmit when granted, 10 years, then grace

Not to scale.

You may transmit once your grant shows in the FCC database, not when the paper or CSCE arrives. In the grace period you can renew, but you stay off the air until it is renewed.

Memory hook10 years. Renew from 90 days out. 2 years grace, silent.

Keep your email and address current

The FCC contacts you by email. If it can't reach you, it can revoke your station license or suspend your operator license.

RememberUpdate your contact info in the FCC database.

International and maritime operating

Question	Answer
What may you say to other countries?	Amateur-radio topics and personal remarks. No business.
Operating at sea in international waters?	Allowed from a US-documented vessel with the master's permission. No special FCC authorization.

RememberAmateur and personal only. Vessel needs the master's okay.

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Compendium articles on the ideas in this lesson, beyond what the exam asks.

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Practise the 11 pool questions for this group. Answers are shuffled, and every one comes with a one-line "why".

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