Where to Take the Ham Radio Exam?

by John Cunningham, W1AI

U.S. exams

The FCC does not allow us to administer the actual exam online.  You must appear in person so the volunteer examiners can check your ID and monitor to make sure you aren't cheating.

 

However, most people don't have to travel far.  There are hundreds of exam sessions across the U.S. every week.  Search for them by zip code at:

http://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session

 

Hint: if you don't see any sessions near your zip code, try one of the following:

• Expand your search to a wider area using the dropdown box to the right of the zip code.
   
• If your zip code is relatively new, use an older one nearby.  The search tool's zip code database might be slightly out-of-date.

 

Canadian exams

For Canadian ham radio exams, search this list of Accredited Examiners.

 

Useful links

What is ham radio?

Which exam to take?

Ham radio exam study tips

Let's get started!