The following frequently asked questions (FAQs) are provided to help answer prospective student’s questions on the technician ham radio class. Any additional questions on the class or obtaining an amateur radio license may be sent to the VE team at ah2gve@ah2g.org.

Q: What is the Technician amateur radio license?
A: The Technician license is the introductory amateur radio license.

Q: What can I do with the Technician amateur radio license?
A: The Technician license allows you to operate an amateur radio station on all amateur radio frequencies above 30 MHz. The Technician frequency privileges include the popular 2 meter band where most local and area communication occurs. An amateur with the Technician license can use voice repeaters using a mobile or hand-held radio to communication with other hams in the area or around the world via internet connections or amateur radio satellites.

Q: Will I have my Technician amateur radio license at the end of the technician class?
A: The class will prepare you to take the Technician amateur radio license exam, known of Element 2. The license examination session is administered by Volunteer Examiners (VEs) who are hams from the local area.

Q: Do I have to know Morse code to get my amateur radio license?
A: Morse code is not required for the entry level Technician license. However, passing a 5 word-per-minute code exam does provide more frequency privileges. The 5 word-per-minute code exam is also required for the more advanced General and Extra licenses.

Q: Are there any age requirements to get an amateur radio license?
A: No, anyone can obtain an amateur radio license as long as they pass the license exam.

Q: Will there be ham radio class homework?
A: Following each class, the student will be expected to review the material presented during the class, read the appropriate chapters in “The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual – All you need to become an Amateur Radio Operator” study guide and review questions in the question pool for the Technician exam. The complete question pool for the Technician exam is published in “The ARRL Ham Radio License Manual – All you need to become an Amateur Radio Operator” publication. Computer software and web sites are also available to assist reviewing the question pool and to take “practice” tests.

Q: What topics are covered on the Technician license exam?
A: The Technician license exam, known as Element 2, consists of 35 multiple-choice questions. The test covers basic FCC rules, communications methods and procedures, basic electronics and safety topics. A passing score is 70% or 26 questions answered correctly.

Q: Who are the instructors for the technician ham radio class?
A: All instructors are members of The AH2G Radio Club.Q: Do I need a radio to attend the class?
A. A radio is not needed to attend the class. The instructors will demonstrate different types of amateur radio equipment during the class and there will be discussion on what characteristics to consider when purchasing your first radio.