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Ham Radio Classes and Exams

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires the successful completion of a written, multiple choice examination in order to be licensed as an Amateur Radio Operator. There are three levels of Amateur Radio Licensure that can be earned; the entry level Technician Class, the General Class, and the Extra Class. When there is sufficient interest, the Paul Bunyan Amateur Radio Club conducts ham radio classes to prepare prospective hams to take the FCC examinations for the technician class license. Classes for the general class and amateur extra class licenses may be scheduled according to need and availability of instructors.

Classes are typically held (when 5 or more people are interested) in the Bemidji Law Enforcement Center's (LEC) Emergency Operations training room. The LEC is located at 613 Minnesota Avenue, Bemidji (use NW door). Classes are free but you must purchase the study manual at a cost of approximately $20.00 through the instructor. Contact the club by e-mail, or regular mail (Paul Bunyan ARC, P.O. Box 524, Bemidji, MN 56619-0524) for information about current or upcoming classes.

Recently, the ARRL has revised the Amateur Radio License Study Guides to enable students to study for and successfully complete the license exams without attending formal classes. This self-study approach to obtaining an Amateur Radio license has proven successful for many candidates and should be considered in lieu of attending a class. Feel free to contact the club for advice and assistance in this approach.

Amateur Radio Test Sessions

Throughout each year, the PBARC conducts FCC examination sessions for the Technician, General, and Extra class licenses. Exam sessions can be scheduled whenever sufficient examinees are in need of an examination. Nearby Amateur Radio Clubs also conduct periodic exam sessions. The date and time of the next exam session can be learned through the ARRL website, by contacting the PBARC (email or mail) or by watching for a public notice in the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper. Preregistration for the exams are recommended but walk-ins are also welcome.

Check Calendar for upcoming test sessions.