FCC Radio & Licensing Articles

July 29, 2026

Software-Defined Radio (SDR): Do You Need a License to Listen?

Software-Defined Radio lets you receive a huge range of signals with an inexpensive USB dongle. No license is required to listen — but transmitting is another matter.

July 25, 2026

How to Set Up a Home Ham Radio Station After Getting Licensed

Your first home ham radio station doesn't need to be complicated or expensive. Here's a practical guide to getting on the air after passing your exam.

July 21, 2026

Remote Operating: Using Your Ham License from Another Location

FCC Part 97 allows amateur radio remote operation. Here's how to legally operate your station from another location and what the rules require.

July 17, 2026

High-Altitude Balloon (HAB) Operations and FCC Licensing

High-altitude balloon missions use amateur radio for tracking and communication. Here's what FCC licenses are needed for HAB operations.

July 13, 2026

Mesh Networking and Amateur Radio: What Licenses Are Required

Amateur radio mesh networks like AREDN create resilient IP networks for emergency communication. Here's how they work and what license is needed.

July 9, 2026

What Is the Amateur Radio Auxiliary? Volunteer Monitoring Explained

The FCC Amateur Auxiliary is a program of volunteer operators who help enforce Part 97 rules. Here's how the OO program works and how to participate.

July 5, 2026

How the FCC Manages the Amateur Radio Spectrum (Part 97)

FCC Part 97 is the set of regulations governing amateur radio in the United States. Here's what the rules cover and how they shape the hobby.

July 1, 2026

How to Upgrade Your Ham License Class Step by Step

Moving from Technician to General, or General to Extra, requires passing the next exam. Here's the step-by-step process to upgrade your amateur radio license.

June 27, 2026

The Two-Year Grace Period: Renewing an Expired Ham License

The FCC gives expired amateur radio licensees two years to renew without retesting. Here's how the grace period works and what steps to take.

June 23, 2026

What Happens If Your Ham License Expires?

An expired FCC amateur radio license means you cannot legally transmit. Here's what to do if your license has lapsed and how the grace period works.

June 19, 2026

How to Change Your Address or Name with the FCC

FCC licensees must keep their contact information current. Here's how to update your address or name in the FCC ULS to keep your license records accurate.

June 15, 2026

SOTA: Summits on the Air and Amateur Radio Licensing

SOTA combines amateur radio with mountain climbing, encouraging operators to carry radios to designated summits. Here's how the program works and what license you need.

June 11, 2026

What Is POTA? Parks on the Air and Ham Radio Explained

Parks on the Air (POTA) is one of the fastest-growing amateur radio programs. Here's how it works, what equipment you need, and why it has captured the community's enthusiasm.

June 7, 2026

ARRL Field Day: What It Is and Why Your Call Sign Matters

ARRL Field Day is the largest amateur radio event in the US. Here's how it works, what license you need to participate, and why your call sign is part of the exchange.

June 3, 2026

Ham Radio Contesting: How Call Signs and Licenses Play a Role

Amateur radio contesting is a competitive operating activity where call signs and license class matter. Here's how contests work and what license you need.

May 30, 2026

DMR Networks and Amateur Radio: Licensing and Operations

DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) has become popular in amateur radio for its clear audio and talk-group networking. Here's what you need to know about licensing and using DMR.

May 26, 2026

FT8 and FT4: The Digital Revolution in Ham Radio Explained

FT8 has transformed HF amateur radio since its introduction in 2017. Here's how it works, why it's so popular, and what you need to get started.

May 22, 2026

Digital Modes in Amateur Radio: What License Do You Need?

Digital modes like FT8, PSK31, and WSPR have transformed HF amateur radio. Here's what license class you need to operate them and on which bands.

May 18, 2026

What Is APRS? Automatic Packet Reporting System and Ham Licensing

APRS is a digital communications system for real-time position tracking and data sharing. Here's how it works and what license you need to use it.

May 14, 2026

Amateur Radio Satellites: FCC Licensing for Space Stations

Amateur radio has operated satellites since the 1960s. Here's how amateur satellite stations are licensed by the FCC and how to use them.