Becoming a Ham
Amateur Radio is open to almost anyone. The only group that are ineligible to become a U.S. licensed operators are representatives of foreign governments. Amateur radio operators come form all walks of life. Even a 6 year-old girl from Utah passed her test to become licensed.
So how do I become licensed?
The current amateur licensing system has three classes, with each class gaining more privileges to operate with. These classes are Technician, General, and Extra. The first test that everybody takes is the technician test also called element 2. Each class that has another test to obtain that class.
After passing element 2 and becoming a technician, you have privileges on all the amateur bands above 50 MHz and some even below that.
So what is this test all about? Is it hard?
The Technician Test covers operating procedures, FCC regulations, what privileges a technician has, basic electronics, and RF safety. The test is a 35 question multiple choice exam. The questions on the exam are chosen from a open pool of questions. The questions are broke up into sections, and so many questions are taken from each section. Each section covers the same topics. So, while the test basically covers the material there are different questions to ask the same thing.
The test is not extremely challenging. HARC has copies of the Technician Licensing Manual published by the ARRL which is the best way to study for the test, and probably more importantly there are some good tips on how to get started once you get your license. Another method to study, which works great for review, is to read all the questions in the question pool.
Where do I take the test?
The tests are given at sessions usually set-up by local clubs or other related organizations. The tests are given by volunteers who are also licensed. The ARRL, a national association of Amateur Radio operators, has a form to search for local licensing sessions.
What to expect on the test day!
When searching for exams, most of the results will indicate where walk-ins are accepted. While most are, there are some the request you contact them so they have the appropriate materials available.
The current test costs $14, which allows you to take each element once, until you fail an element. So you can take the technician test, and if you pass it, you can take the next test to be come a General without paying again. At most testing session you will be able to take a element you failed again once, but you will have to pay again. If the examiners don't tell you this, ask them they will be happy to explain their policy.
The format of the test varies between session. For the most part, the test will be a preprinted form from the ARRL/VEC. The test is a pre-printed pamphlet, and your answers go on another sheet. Some sessions also use a test printed from a computer. No matter what format though, the questions are always the same. They multiple choice answer can, however, be randomized - so remembering just the letter answer is not a good idea.