Welcome to the HRAC Getting Started in Amateur Radio resource section. Here you will find excellent resources to help get you started in learning about amateur radio, as well as the steps leading you up to getting that initial license (“Ticket”) to become an FCC licensed amateur radio operator. This section is always growing as we author and locate new and exciting materials, but here are a few to get your started:
NOTE: HRAC does not endorse or otherwise recommend any of the resources over the other, or have received any financial or other support by offering these resources. They are being offered as-is to help anyone interested in amateur radio.
RESOURCES FOR EVERYONE
Before we get started, we must remember that amateur radio is an all inclusive hobby. As such, we must remember that not everyone is completely Able Bodied. So if you have special challenges, such as being blind, check out our Resources for the Disabled page. Otherwise, please continue reading on…
ONLINE RESOURCES – Beginners to Technician
ARRL New Ham Resources
A combination of resources for those just starting to learn about amateur radio on up through the licensing process to Technician class. Fantastic all around resource for newly interested individuals. And frankly, an excellent guide to help even the most advanced operator remember the basics from time-to-time.
ARRL Quick Start Guide (PDF)
So you got your “Ticket” (FCC Radio Operator License), but now what? This resource from the ARRL will help you along that path and provide a tremendous amount of information to get your operating.
Central Pennsylvania License Prep Classes
In person, two (2) day Cram Session classes where you’ll spend the better part of a day and a half learning all about the items and knowledge you’ll need to pass the license exam. The license exam will take part second half of the second day.
Ham Radio Exam – Technician
Smartphone app will help the user pass his/her examination for a Technician Class FCC Amateur Radio License. Newly updated to include the question pool for exams administered after 01 July 2018. Ham Radio Exam allows the user to review the correct answers to the official pool of questions that will appear on their Technician license exam. The user can also take quizzes of each topic that will be on the exam as well as take simulated examinations that exactly mimic the license exam that the user will take. The users performance is stored so that the user can track their progress as they continue their preparations. Ham Radio Exam even allows the user to find an examination session near them and to follow ham radio news.
WEBMASTER NOTE: The most realistic test prep experience compared to the actual exam process! Used and still referenced!
Ham Radio Prep
Online Courseware for the learning and license preparation mainly focused at Technician, but offer other advanced topics as well including General and Amateur Extra. Personally used by several members and provides great introduction and education. Testing platform is not a great as other resources, but will get the job done.
HRAC Hosted License Exam Sessions
HRAC hosts license exam sessions every other month. Please use the link above to view the current schedule and learn more about how to go about registering for license exams.
ONLINE RESOURCES – General
Ham Radio Exam – General
Smartphone app will help the user pass his/her examination for a General Class FCC Amateur Radio License. Newly updated to include the question pool for exams administered after 01 July 2018. Ham Radio Exam allows the user to review the correct answers to the official pool of questions that will appear on their Technician license exam. The user can also take quizzes of each topic that will be on the exam as well as take simulated examinations that exactly mimic the license exam that the user will take. The users performance is stored so that the user can track their progress as they continue their preparations. Ham Radio Exam even allows the user to find an examination session near them and to follow ham radio news.
WEBMASTER NOTE: The most realistic test prep experience compared to the actual exam process! Used and still referenced!
ONLINE RESOURCES – Amateur Extra
Ham Radio Exam – Extra
Smartphone app will help the user pass his/her examination for a Amateur Extra Class FCC Amateur Radio License. Newly updated to include the question pool for exams administered after 01 July 2018. Ham Radio Exam allows the user to review the correct answers to the official pool of questions that will appear on their Technician license exam. The user can also take quizzes of each topic that will be on the exam as well as take simulated examinations that exactly mimic the license exam that the user will take. The users performance is stored so that the user can track their progress as they continue their preparations. Ham Radio Exam even allows the user to find an examination session near them and to follow ham radio news.
OTHER ONLINE RESOURCES
ARRL Learning Network
Visit this page to gain access to a whole host of online learning and webinar opportunities offered through the ARRL. Content courtesy of the ARRL.
Resources for the Disabled
Visit this page to learn how everyone can prepare for and participate in amateur radio. Content courtesy of the ARRL.
JOIN US AT A MEETING
Thank you for your interest in amateur radio. In addition to these online resources, HRAC has a tremendous amount of actual applied experience and operating hours throughout its membership. As a result, we highly recommend that you take the time and opportunity to join us at our next club meeting.