Step 1
Build Your Study Plan
Decide which element you are chasing and map out realistic study sessions.
- Technician can be completed in 3–4 weeks of 30–45 minutes/day. General usually requires 6–8 dedicated weeks.
- Pair printed manuals (ARRL, Gordon West) with HamStudy.org, Ham Radio Crash Course, or W5YI video series so you hear the content explained multiple ways.
- Schedule at least two full-length practice exams per week and note the question pools that fall below 80%.
Step 2
Get Your FRN & ULS Login
Every applicant must have a Federal Registration Number (FRN) before testing.
- Use the FCC CORES site (apps.fcc.gov/cores) to create a username/password and capture your 10-digit FRN.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (text or authenticator app) so you can log in quickly after the exam.
- Store the FRN in your radio notebook and password manager—you will reuse it for upgrades and renewals.
Step 3
Reserve an Exam Session
Choose an OBARC in-person session or an accredited remote option.
- Email testing@w5obm.com to reserve a seat at our monthly Volunteer Examiner (VE) session in Olive Branch.
- Prefer remote? ARRL VEC, W5YI, and GLAARG all offer webcam-supervised exams. Plan extra time for tech checks.
- Exam fee: $15 (ARRL VEC). The FCC also charges a $35 application fee for new Technician licenses, payable online after you pass.
Step 4
Test-Day Checklist
Arrive early, stay calm, and bring the right paperwork.
Must Bring
- Government-issued photo ID (students may use school ID + birth certificate).
- Printed FRN confirmation or the number saved on your phone.
- Email address plus any CSCEs from previous elements.
- Exact cash or electronic payment for the VE fee.
Can Bring
- Non-programmable calculator with memories cleared.
- Several pencils, scratch paper, clipboard.
- Water bottle or cough drops (at VE discretion).
Leave at Home
- Smart watches, phones, reference books.
- Radios or RF gear.
- Friends/family unless a guardian is required.
Step 5
FCC Follow-Up
Watch your inbox after the exam.
- VE teams submit paperwork within 24 hours; you will receive an email confirmation.
- New Technicians: log into CORES and pay the $35 fee within 10 days or the application will expire.
- Once your call sign appears in the ULS, print the reference copy and store it with your station documents.
Step 6
Stay Active & Keep Learning
Use your new privileges immediately so the knowledge sticks.
- Check into OBARC nets, monitor SKYWARN activations, and log every QSO for the first 30 days.
- Set an upgrade target date and let the mentoring team know how we can help.
- Volunteer at public-service events to translate book knowledge into real-world communication skills.
Need private coaching?
Email elmers@w5obm.com with your target date and the topics giving you trouble—we will pair you with a mentor or study group.