Technician
The best starting point for most new hams. It opens local repeaters, handheld radios, emergency communications practice, and many VHF/UHF activities.
Start with Technician
Get Licensed
You do not need an engineering background to become a ham. Most people start with the Technician license, learn the practical basics, and get on local repeaters with a simple radio.
General
Adds broad HF privileges so you can make more long-distance contacts across the country and around the world.
Amateur Extra
The highest class, with full amateur privileges and a deeper pool of radio theory, rules, and operating knowledge.
A practical study path
Take the CCARC Technician class, practice with HamStudy.org, then register for a local exam session. After your license appears in the FCC database, club members can help you make your first contacts.
Study Resources
To prepare for the exam, we recommend:
- HamStudy.org — Free online study guide and practice exams. Start here for self-paced learning.
- ARRL Technician License Manual (about $36) — The definitive reference for exam topics. Available through Amazon or ARRL.org.
- Practice exams — Available free online; HamStudy and other sites offer full-length practice tests to build exam confidence.
Study materials and resources will be sent to you after you sign up for class.