Get licensed in four simple steps
GMRS licensing is quick, affordable, and requires no exam. Your license covers your whole family for 10 years.
Register for free in the Commission Registration System (CORES) to get your FRN.
Go to siteApply in FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS). No exam required. The GMRS license covers your entire immediate family.
Go to siteThe one-time FCC application fee grants a 10-year license.
Verify your callsign on Repeater Nation to earn your Verified badge automatically.
Get licensed in four steps
Amateur radio requires passing a short multiple-choice exam — no Morse code — administered by volunteer examiners. Your Technician license is issued for 10 years and opens up frequencies worldwide.
Register for free in the Commission Registration System (CORES) to get your FRN.
Go to siteNo Morse code required. The entry-level exam covers rules, safety, and basic electronics — free study guides and practice tests are widely available.
Go to siteFind a Volunteer Examiner test session (in person or online) and pass a 35-question multiple-choice exam for a small session fee.
Go to siteThe FCC issues your callsign automatically, usually within a week. Verify it on Repeater Nation to earn your Verified badge.