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Interested in Radio?

December 9, 2025· Casondra Thompson · Wife of w5aww

Interested in Radio?

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+
  • What we are using
• 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
  • Our most recent purchase
• Note: At least 2 devices required to start line-of-site unless using a repeater
• [Future Blog]