Amateur Radio General Class

Event Phone: Roger Runnels (713) 254-6615

The U.S. FCC General Class amateur radio license is the middle of the three current ham radio license levels (Technician → General → Amateur Extra). Its core purpose is to give operators broad access to the HF bands, enabling reliable nationwide and worldwide communication—something the entry‑level Technician license cannot fully do.  The General Class license is an FCC‑issued amateur radio authorization that expands your privileges to most HF bands (160–10 meters), allowing long‑distance voice, digital, and CW operation. It requires passing a 35‑question Element 3 exam and holding a Technician license.

The ARRL General Class License Manual, 10th edition has been updated for the latest changes in the FCC General license exam question pool.  It will prepare you for the General license exam July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2027.  Topics covered in this course include:

• FCC rules
• Operating procedures
• HF propagation
• Antennas & feedlines
• Electrical principles
• Safety

The  course is completed in 8 two-hour teleconference sessions on-line via Zoom.  There is a final session for review. The FCC examination (must be in-person) will have a date set with the students and the Examiners.  The passing exam score is (74%) or better.  The class will set schedules around holidays.  You can click here to log onto the Zoom meeting; or use log onto Zoom and use the meeting ID  889 7394 4420 and the Passcode 584477,

Testing for Candidates
There is a minimal fee ($15 check or cash paid to the FCC-authorized examiners, not to the Squadron) for the examination, as required by the FCC.  We will work with ham radio clubs in your area if you are taking the course and live outside the Houston metroplex area. Most of these clubs have regular examination sessions.