What are the different amateur radio license classes in the USA?

In the United States, there are three classes of amateur radio licenses, each granting specific operating privileges and requiring the passing of a progressively more challenging examination. The classes, in increasing order of privileges, are Technician, General, and Amateur Extra.

Technician License

The Technician license is the entry-level license class, granting access to all Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) amateur bands, as well as limited privileges on High Frequency (HF) bands. The exam for the Technician license consists of a 35-question multiple-choice test covering basic radio theory, regulations, and operating procedures. After passing the exam, a Technician licensee can operate on frequencies above 50 MHz and make use of popular modes like FM, SSB, and various digital modes.

General License

The General license is the intermediate-level license class, offering additional HF band privileges to enable communication over greater distances. To obtain a General license, an applicant must pass the Technician exam and a separate 35-question General exam. The General exam covers more advanced topics in radio theory, regulations, and operating procedures. With a General license, an operator gains access to a wider range of frequencies and modes, allowing for more versatile communication, including international contacts (known as DXing).

Amateur Extra License

The Amateur Extra license is the highest level of licensing in the United States, granting access to all amateur bands and operating modes. To earn an Amateur Extra license, a candidate must pass the Technician and General exams, followed by a 50-question Amateur Extra exam. The Amateur Extra exam covers advanced radio theory, regulations, and operating procedures. Holding an Amateur Extra license provides the broadest range of operating privileges, including access to additional spectrum on popular HF bands.

In summary, the three amateur radio license classes in the United States are Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. Each class grants increasing privileges and requires the passing of a progressively more challenging examination. These licenses allow operators to explore various aspects of amateur radio, from local VHF/UHF communication to long-distance HF contacts and experimentation with different modes and technologies.