Become a Radio Amateur
Details of how to obtain your amateur radio licence and the three levels of licensing . more »
What is Amateur Radio?
Amateur Radio is a unique, fascinating and friendly hobby that captivates the interest of millions of people around the world.
Amateur radio is all about the skill and fascination of communicating using radio. Radio amateurs have their own communication satellites, talk to the international space station and are at the very cutting edge of technology in many areas.
Amateur Radio operators come from all walks of life. They are all ages, sexes, income levels and nationalities. Whether they prefer Morse code, voice communication on a hand-held radio, or computerized messages transmitted via satellite, they all have an interest in what's happening in the world, and they use radio to reach out.
Fun for Everyone!
Some are attracted by the ability to communicate across the country, around the globe, or even with astronauts on space missions. Others may like to build and experiment with electronics. Some enjoy using Amateur Radio's digital communications opportunities. Those with a competitive streak enjoy "DX contests," where the object is to see how many hams in distant locations they can contact. Some like the convenience of a technology that gives them portable communication.
