San Francisco Ham Cram

AERO is a disaster preparedness activity and this page tells about SF radio licensing exams.

Here is our latest poster. It has the latest, up-to-date info. See it to check on any late-breaking changes.

And some FAQ's:

Can I really earn my license in one day?

Sure, between 75-100% of our students do. And no previous knowledge or training is required. At the end of the day you may have passed the Technician exam, and if so, you will receive your license in a week or two.

How much does it cost?

$14 FCC mandated VEC fee, $6 if you want the technicial (beginning) study guide.

$14 FCC mandated VEC fee, $26 if you want the general (upgrade) study guide and lecture.

Why this program?

What are the advantages over other programs?

Sounds great, when and where is the next exam?

You can find the time, date and location of the next exam on our latest poster. READ BOTH PAGES!

What do I need to bring?

Your money, of course, lunch money, 2 ids (at least one with picture), and several pencils or pens (pencils with good eraser are best).

If you are claiming credit for other exams passed previously (such as for an advanced or code exam) or for licenses currently held, bring a copy (which we will keep) of your proof (such as a copy of your CSCE or a license that requires the claimed elements) AND the original (which you keep).

What is your schedule?

Study and exams for 2008:  1/20       3/16       6/1       9/7       11/16    

Who gives this exam?

The FCC has delegated amateur examinations to 17 Volunteer Exam Coordinators, this exam is given by W5YI-VEC.

When do I learn about my license?

See http:/www.qrz.com/new_hams.html

In 2-3 weeks you can learn about the granting of your call sign and your call letters.

What do I do next after I get my license?

Attend the meetings of your local amateur Radio Club. Find out about the SF Amateur Radio Club at sfarc.org

Do you have more advanced exams?

Yes, the Element 1 (Morse code) exam, Element 3 the General class exam, and Element 4 the Extra class exam.

Do you have study guides for the other exams?

Only for Element 3, the General class exam. There is a brand-new study guide and class. The study guide and class cost $26, the class takes about an hour followed by a 3 hour cram and the exam ($14). Since the exam has gotten harder, our failure rate has climbed. We now recommend that you STUDY a high school physics text, the parts on electricity (DC and AC).

Questions? Email dave1 at wcf dot com.

Last updated: April 8, 2007