Quick Answer
The Technician Class license is the entry-level license in the US, allowing operators to transmit on the VHF and UHF amateur bands, as well as on the 30, 60, 70, and 75 meter shortwave bands. This license requires passing a 35-question, multiple-choice exam administered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A Technician license holder can communicate with other amateur radio operators worldwide.
Eligibility and Exam Requirements
To be eligible for the Technician Class license, applicants must be at least 13 years old and pass a 35-question, multiple-choice exam. The exam covers topics such as operating procedures, safety, and equipment, as well as radio theory and electronics. The exam is administered by the FCC and is offered at various testing centers across the US.
Frequency and Bandwidth Privileges
With a Technician Class license, operators are authorized to transmit on the VHF and UHF amateur bands, including frequencies from 144 to 148 MHz and 420 to 450 MHz. Additionally, Technician license holders can operate on the 30, 60, 70, and 75 meter shortwave bands, which include frequencies from 10 to 30 MHz. These frequency allocations allow for communication with other amateur radio operators in the US and abroad.
Practical Considerations
To make efficient use of the Technician Class license privileges, operators should familiarize themselves with the relevant frequency allocations and operating procedures. This includes understanding the concept of “gray lines,” which refer to the frequency boundaries between different amateur radio bands. Operators should also be aware of the power output limits for their equipment, which range from 50 to 100 watts for most amateur radio transmitters.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.