Starting in Amateur Radio

Getting Started

To become an Amateur Radio operator you must first pass an exam and become licensed. Once you have qualified you can apply to OFCOM (The Office of Communications, which is the UK regulatory body) to be issued with a personal callsign, subject to strict rules regarding its use. If you break these rules, you can have your callsign withdrawn, be fined or sent to prison. In the UK there are three levels of licensing, which have different privileges and responsibilities. These are listed below:

Foundation

The Foundation level exam is the basic level and is the first step to getting on the air. At Foundation level you can operate on HF, VHF and UHF at 25w output subject to your licence regulations.

Intermediate

The Intermediate level of licencing requires the operator to further their knowledge of all the topics covered in the Foundation level and more. At Intermediate level you can operate on HF, VHF and UHF at 100w output subject to your licence regulations.

Full

The full level of licencing is the highest level available and allows the holder to supervise lower levels, operate abroad in certain countries and to use the full spectrum of the amateur radio bands at up to 1kw output.

HOW DO I GET LICENSED?

Step One. The first step is to start studying. The recommended method is to purchase the Foundation Level License Manual from the RSGB (click here). It is also recommended that you also enrol on a course, either at a club or online. A popular online course is the free Ham Train course provided by Essex Ham (click here). The RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) has recently introduced a direct to Full licence scheme for those who have very extensive knowledge and experience of radio and electronics. But for most people, progression through the levels is the norm. There is no longer a requirement to pass a practical exam, but joining a club will give you the required skills.

Step Two. Once you have completed your study you apply to the RSGB to sit an online exam (click here). On passing the exam you, will be issued with a candidate number.

Step Three. The RSGB will notify OFCOM of your exam pass and you can then use your candidate number to register with OFCOM. You can then choose a callsign from a list of those available. This callsign will be yours for life. You will then receive your license to operate, which you must strictly adhere to.

PROGRESSION

Once licensed, the operator has a vast choice of different subjects within the hobby. It is highly recommended that you join and support a club. Seeking advice on equipment and topics via a club can save time, money and frustration. Clubs have a wealth of information and experience and should be able to help you in virtually all facets of the hobby.

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