Skip to main content

Interested in Radio?

· 3 min read
Casondra Thompson
Wife of w5aww

We are excited to get you started!

What is HAM?​

Amateur radio (ham radio) is the use of specific radio frequency bands for non-commercial communication, experimentation, and emergency support. Some consider this a hobby, but enthusiasts are prevalent across the globe!

Is HAM Expensive?​

  • Exam session: $15 (pass or fail)
  • FCC license: $35 (includes license, renewals, or upgrades)
  • Study materials: $0–$75 (varies by preference)
  • Beginner equipment: $35–$300+ (available new or secondhand)

How to Start?​

Study Resources​

  • HAM Manuals
    Available in softback, hardback, and digital formats via:
    ARRL Shop or Amazon.com

  • Study Apps
    Download to phone or computer:
    HAM Radio Prep, Ham Exam, or Ham Study

  • Classes
    In-person, hybrid, or online:
    Find an Exam Session

FCC Licensing Requirements​

You must pass each level before advancing:

  • Technician (Tech)

    • Limited amateur band operation
    • Pass 26 of 35 questions (74% minimum)
    • First license level

  • General

    • Full amateur band operation worldwide + HF privileges up to 1,500 watts
    • Pass 26 of 35 questions
    • Requires Tech license

  • Extra

    • Full privileges on all amateur bands and modes + additional HF segments
    • Pass 37 of 50 questions
    • Requires General license

Testing can be taken in person or virtually in a controlled environment.

Additional Resources​

  • hotarc.org — Heart of Texas Amateur Radio Club
  • ARRL.org — American Radio Relay League
  • FCC.gov — Federal Communications Commission
  • QRZ.com — Popular amateur radio database and logging tool
  • POTA.app — Parks on the Air

Not Ready to Get Certified?​

Try LoRa Radio or GMRS

LoRa Radio​

LoRa Radio uses license-free sub-gigahertz radio frequency bands. With devices from Heletc, Meshtastic, RAK, and others (prefab or self-build), you can create your own local communication grid — or “hop” with other mesh devices to communicate miles away.

Is LoRa Radio Expensive?​

  • Beginner devices: $25–$100+
  • Note: At least 2 devices required to start a closed mesh network
  • In rural, tree-dense, or hilly areas, additional antennas may be needed — connectivity is largely “line-of-sight”

Software Options​

  • Meshtastic
    Open-source, community-driven project enabling long-range off-grid communication using inexpensive LoRa radios. Ideal for areas without reliable infrastructure.

  • MeshCore
    Multi-platform system for secure text-based communications using LoRa hardware.
    Use cases: Off-grid comms, emergency response, outdoor activities, tactical security (law enforcement, private security), and IoT sensor networks.
    Watch founder Andy’s videos to learn more!

GMRS​

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is a licensed radio service that uses channels around 462 MHz and 467 MHz. The most common use of GMRS channels is for short-distance, two-way voice communications using hand-held radios, mobile radios and repeater systems.

Is GMRS Expensive?​

  • Licensing: $35 via FCC.gov
  • *Beginner Equipment: $35+ per set
  • Note: At least 2 devices required to start line-of-site unless using a repeater
  • [Future Blog]