How do I renew my amateur radio license?

In the United States, an amateur radio license is valid for ten years from the date of issuance or the last renewal. It’s essential to renew your license before it expires to continue enjoying your amateur radio operating privileges. Here are the steps to renew your amateur radio license:

1. Determine your renewal eligibility: You can submit your license renewal application within 90 days before the license expiration date. If your license has already expired, you have a two-year grace period to renew it. However, during this grace period, you are not allowed to operate until the license is renewed. If you fail to renew within the two-year grace period, you will lose your license and must start over by taking the exam again.
2. Obtain your FCC Registration Number (FRN): The FRN is a unique identifier assigned by the FCC to all licensees. You will need your FRN to renew your license. If you don’t know your FRN, you can look it up in the FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS) by searching for your call sign.
3. Log in to the FCC ULS: Go to the FCC ULS website (https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp) and log in using your FRN and password. If you haven’t registered an online account before, follow the instructions on the website to create a new account.
4. Renew your license: Once logged in to the ULS, click on “My Licenses” to see your current license information. Find your amateur radio license and click on the “Renew” link. Review and confirm your personal information and follow the instructions to submit your renewal application. There is no fee for renewing your amateur radio license.
5. Wait for the FCC to process your renewal: The FCC will review your renewal application and, if approved, update the expiration date of your license in the ULS. The processing time may vary, but it usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks. You can check the ULS periodically to see if your renewal has been processed.
6. Print your renewed license (optional): Once your license renewal is approved, you can download and print your official license from the ULS. While it’s not required to carry a physical copy of your license when operating, having a printed copy can be useful for reference or in case of any inquiries.

By following these steps and renewing your amateur radio license before it expires or within the two-year grace period, you can continue to enjoy your amateur radio operating privileges without interruption.