Licensing Overview #
The General Class License is the second step in the US amateur radio licensing structure, building upon your Technician privileges. Here’s a quick look at where you stand and what lies ahead.
The Three US License Classes #
- Technician: Your entry ticket. VHF/UHF privileges, local repeaters, limited HF access.
- General (You Are Here!): The gateway to the world. HF privileges on 160-10 meters, international communication, higher power limits.
- Amateur Extra: The pinnacle. Exclusive sub-bands on HF, shorter call signs, and full volunteer examiner status.
Upgrade Requirements #
To upgrade to General, you must pass Element 3. This exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions drawn from a pool maintained by the National Conference of Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (NCVEC). The topics include:
- Commission’s Rules
- Operating Procedures
- Radio Wave Propagation
- Amateur Radio Practices
- Electrical Principles
- Circuit Components
- Practical Circuits
- Signals and Emissions
- Antennas and Feedlines
- Electrical and RF Safety
Incentive Licensing #
The US system uses “incentive licensing” to encourage hams to learn more and upgrade. As you progress:
- More Frequency: You gain access to exclusive segments of the bands where interference is often lower.
- More Power: General Class operators can use up to 1500 watts PEP on most HF bands (Technicians are limited to 200 watts on HF).
- More Modes: Access to phone (voice) segments on 80, 40, 20, and 15 meters, plus data/CW privileges on 30, 17, and 12 meters.
Maintaining Your License #
Your General Class license is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely. There is no re-testing required for renewal unless your license expires for more than two years.
Important Note: If you previously held a Technician license issued before March 21, 1987, you may already have credit for Element 3! Check with a Volunteer Examiner (VE) team to see if you qualify for an instant upgrade.