The Yuma Hamfest will offer license testing to those interested in obtaining their amateur radio license or upgrading their current license. Operation of an amateur station requires a license granted by the FCC. To obtain an amateur operator license you must prove proficiency in basic electronic theory and operating rules. There are three different classes of licenses, each providing more operating privileges and benefits, but each increasingly more difficult to obtain. The classes of license, from highest to lowest are: Amateur Extra Class, General Class, and Technician Class. Most new amateur radio operators start with the Technician Class operator license test. Obtaining an amateur radio license no longer requires knowing Morse code.

In amateur radio, you do not take a test directly from the FCC. Instead, you are tested by other amateur radio operators who have had special training. These people are known as Volunteer Examiners, or VEs. Before receiving a license, you must pass an examination administered by a team of VEs. VEs will be on hand at the Yuma Hamfest. For your convenience, two separate testing sessions have been scheduled. Testing will be available on Friday at 3:00 P.M. and Saturday at 9:00 A.M in the 4H Building. Testing time and building usage is limited so please be on time. People desiring to test must bring two sets of ID, one with a photo. You should have a pen and a pencil with an eraser. If you are already licensed, you need to have a photocopy of your license, and the original. If you have a Certificate of Completion for which you want credit, you should have a photocopy and the original with you.  It is also now a requirement to have a FCC Registration Number (FRN).  For those already licensed, their FRN will be on their license.  Those attempting to license for the first time, should go to the FCC New User Registration page to acquire their FRN.

The Yuma Hamfest testing fee is $15.00 and will be collected before you take your exam. Cash or checks only please. If you will be paying with cash, please try to bring the exact amount. If you plan to test at the hamfest and need further information, you should contact John Ham (N0RHZ) at 970-927-3273 (voice or text) or Richard Palaszynski (KC2LGR) at 928-305-0715.

PLEASE INFORM US ASAP BEFORE TESTING IF YOU HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS OR REQUIRE ASSISTANCE DURING THE TEST.