Starting Amateur Radio

Amateur radio has existed since the earliest days of radio communication. What began as simple experimentation quickly grew into a worldwide community of operators who enjoy learning about radio technology, communicating across great distances, and providing public service during emergencies. 

The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) was founded on April 6, 1914 by Hiram Percy Maxim and remains the largest association of amateur radio enthusiasts in the United States, where amateur radio licenses are issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in three levels: Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. The Technician License is the entry-level license and allows new operators to get on the air and begin exploring many aspects of the hobby.

The Hill Country Amateur Radio Club (HCARC) offers free amateur radio training classes throughout the year based on interest and demand. All licenses require passing a written examination administered by Volunteer Examiners. The equipment needed to begin operating is generally affordable, available and perhaps available, on loan, from the club. Online training and testing are also available for a fee at https://hamradioprep.com/. Many of our members have used this service but the club does not endorse any external, fee-based study programs.  

If you are interested in learning more, we invite you to attend one of our club meetings held on the first Thursday of each month. Come introduce yourself, meet local operators, and discover how you can get started in amateur radio. You will quickly find amateur radio operators are among the most friendly and supportive people you will ever meet.

FCC Exams

The Hill Country Amateur Radio Club participates in the  American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Volunteer Examiner Program, helping new and advancing operators earn their amateur radio licenses. Exam sessions can be located through the Ham Study preregistration website at: https://hamstudy.org/sessions/arrl/78028/inperson 

Our club typically schedules exam sessions on the first Saturday of each month, following the regularly scheduled Thursday night meeting. No exams are scheduled in December. Please note, exam sessions are contingent upon candidate registration. If no candidates are registered by the time of the monthly club meeting, that month’s session is likely to be canceled. For complete details, including scheduling updates and registration information, please visit our Testing page.