There is a test, and depending on the level of license you want, it gets more difficult.
A technician’s test is the easiest but it requires some rules/regulations knowledge and a very basic understanding of electronics and computer tech as it relates to communications.
The next level up is the general license, and it requires a more moderate level of knowledge in those areas.
The highest level is the Amateur Extra license, which is the most difficult to pass. I scored less than 50% on that exam - took it at the same time I took the general license exam. Studying is necessary, but there are aides for studying and learning.
Each higher class of license allows you access to more frequencies and possibly greater broadcast power.
Go to the arrl.org for more information.
There is a test, and depending on the level of license you want, it gets more difficult.
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While studying I saw an opportunity to take the Tech test earlier than I had planned to, just to see if my studying was paying off. Only missed 1 question, so the testers asked if I wanted to try the General. So I took the General the same day. Missed passing buy 1 question.
Month later I took the General and the Extra test and passed both.
Requires a lot of studying. But getting over Mic Fright is much harder. Took the test 4 years ago and have yet to talk on frequency. The couple of times I had the courage to talk I was mobile and not coming thru well. Someday I’ll get it done.
73
This is the one I used. It is really good.