Hunt & Live

Q&A · Off-Grid

How much does it cost to obtain a General Class ham license?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

The fee for a General Class ham license is $15 in the United States. This fee is paid when applying for the license. The cost may vary in other countries.

Obtaining a General Class Ham License: A Step-by-Step Guide

Obtaining a General Class ham license is a straightforward process that requires passing a multiple-choice exam administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The exam consists of 35 questions, and a minimum score of 26 is required to pass. To prepare for the exam, it’s essential to study the FCC’s study materials, which can be found on the FCC’s website.

Study Materials and Resources

The FCC provides a study guide, known as the “Element 3” study guide, which covers the topics that will be tested on the exam. This study guide is available for free on the FCC’s website. In addition to the study guide, there are many online resources and study groups that can help individuals prepare for the exam. Some popular resources include the ARRL’s (American Radio Relay League) study materials and the HamStudy guide app.

Tips for Passing the Exam

To increase the chances of passing the exam, it’s essential to thoroughly study the study materials and practice with sample questions. The exam is multiple-choice, and the questions cover a wide range of topics, including operating procedures, safety, and technical aspects of radio communication. Individuals should also make sure to register for the exam in advance, as this can help ensure that they get a seat at the testing location. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a valid government-issued ID and a photocopy of the ID to the testing location.

ham-radio-general-license much cost obtain general class
Share

Find more answers

Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.