The Technician license
35multiple-choice questions
26correct answers to pass (74%)
$35FCC fee, plus a small exam fee
10years before renewal
No Morse code required. Many people pass after a few weeks of online practice tests.
What it adds
Thousands of repeaters
Many with backup power and wide coverage
Emergency networks
ARES and Skywarn storm spotters
Longer reach
Higher licenses open up statewide and worldwide bands
More equipment
Your Baofeng-style radios may cover ham bands too
How to get it
- Study the question poolFree practice tests online (HamStudy, ARRL)
- Find an exam sessionARRL lists local and online sessions
- Get your FRN readyThe same one from your GMRS license
- Pass and pay the FCC feeYour call sign arrives by email
Remember
GMRS gets the family talking; ham radio gets you connected to the wider world.
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Answer key
- How many questions are on the Technician exam?3535 multiple-choice questions.
- How many correct answers do you need to pass?2626 of 35, about 74%.
- Is Morse code required?NoNo Morse code is required.
- What can you reuse from your GMRS license when applying?Your FRNThe same FCC Registration Number works for both.
- What does a ham license add?Access to emergency networks and many more repeatersARES, Skywarn and thousands of repeaters.