arrl vec open book review answers

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Becoming a Volunteer Examiner

• Thread starter N4VKF
• Start date Dec 21, 2018

needairtime

• Dec 23, 2019

I was talking to a local VE and he suggested I should go ahead and get credentials for ARRL/VEC accreditation. I ended up going ahead and filling out the open book "test" and well some of the questions I felt were kind of weird, perhaps they were more of thought questions... But anyway what I didn't think about earlier are the "unruly" candidates... not sure of how to deal with them. For those VEs out there, how do you handle the - people who didn't quite make the grade - people who really didn't make the grade - people who get angry that they didn't make the grade - people who get *really* angry and threaten a VE to make the grade for themselves or another ... (does this happen?) Because it was mentioned in the ARRL VE manual, I suspect it can and does happen... But granted yes, should definitely double check that one didn't use the wrong answer key, so definitely do this before responding to them... I suspect it's only the tech license that get the more unpleasant responses, as the element 3 and 4 exams the person should know how things go beforehand.  

When I was a VE years ago, if someone missed by one question, we’d tell them to look at their test again, & make sure their answers were correct. We would not point out the mistakes, just tell them to look it over again.  

needairtime said: I was talking to a local VE and he suggested I should go ahead and get credentials for ARRL/VEC accreditation. I ended up going ahead and filling out the open book "test" and well some of the questions I felt were kind of weird, perhaps they were more of thought questions... But anyway what I didn't think about earlier are the "unruly" candidates... not sure of how to deal with them. For those VEs out there, how do you handle the - people who didn't quite make the grade Click to expand...

- people who really didn't make the grade Click to expand...

- people who get angry that they didn't make the grade Click to expand...

- people who get *really* angry and threaten a VE to make the grade for themselves or another ... (does this happen?) Click to expand...

Because it was mentioned in the ARRL VE manual, I suspect it can and does happen... But granted yes, should definitely double check that one didn't use the wrong answer key, so definitely do this before responding to them... Click to expand...

I suspect it's only the tech license that get the more unpleasant responses, as the element 3 and 4 exams the person should know how things go beforehand. Click to expand...

• Dec 24, 2019

N4KVE said: When I was a VE years ago, if someone missed by one question, we’d tell them to look at their test again, & make sure their answers were correct. We would not point out the mistakes, just tell them to look it over again. Click to expand...

Explorer of the Frequency Spectrum

k6cpo said: My VEC (SANDARC VEC in San Diego, CA) has a policy of granting a retest to those who fail only by a couple of questions. Experience has proven that these people usually do worse the second time around, but sometimes they will pass on the second attempt. The second examination they receive is completely different from the first. Click to expand...

Even ARRL/VEC gives next incremental free if you pass the previous (heck, that's how I ended up gaming things so I never have to test again...hopefully...) but normally if you fail a test (badly) you should get a different test to try again - regardless of VEC, free or not. But yes the free ones it's another hour of volunteer time to test again (whereas the fee based ones it's a deterrent if you really don't know the material) so yes it's a lot less time to hand back for corrections but this is the equivalent of giving them the same test twice in a row, on the same day no less... BTW, I didn't get a clear answer from the guide, is computerized testing actually an option with that ARRL test generator that VEs have access to? That sure would take out any possible errors in grading...  

The digest problem is not the VE's, but the so-called instructors who do a piss poor class.  

ladn said: That's a generous and common sense policy if it's free . Many VECs routinely offer the next incremental test free if you pass (ie: tech ===>general ===>extra ). Many VECs will retest fails, but charge another testing fee. Click to expand...

needairtime said: Even ARRL/VEC gives next incremental free if you pass the previous (heck, that's how I ended up gaming things so I never have to test again...hopefully...) but normally if you fail a test (badly) you should get a different test to try again - regardless of VEC, free or not. But yes the free ones it's another hour of volunteer time to test again (whereas the fee based ones it's a deterrent if you really don't know the material) so yes it's a lot less time to hand back for corrections but this is the equivalent of giving them the same test twice in a row, on the same day no less... Click to expand...

I thought it should be standard to use that answer key template, just need to eye the holes that aren't blackened out, count those up, and if it's more than ...actually to throw people in a loop, 9 to 11 wrong answers (note that 9 is passing) and go over it again. Perhaps this would be a bit more indicative of them knowing which ones they got wrong, and show confidence on the ones that they know are right... I'd say it's best discretionary by the VE team whether you offer a free exam (ideally, different version!) if they were close. But I think it is reasonable to use the fee to deter people from keep on testing when they don't know the material, wasting time. Basically for a multiple-guess, it is possible to keep on guessing to pass, but if it costs money to guess, it's best to know the material and not depend on chance that you might get it right.  

needairtime said: I thought it should be standard to use that answer key template, just need to eye the holes that aren't blackened out, count those up, and if it's more than ...actually to throw people in a loop, 9 to 11 wrong answers (note that 9 is passing) and go over it again. Perhaps this would be a bit more indicative of them knowing which ones they got wrong, and show confidence on the ones that they know are right... I'd say it's best discretionary by the VE team whether you offer a free exam (ideally, different version!) if they were close. But I think it is reasonable to use the fee to deter people from keep on testing when they don't know the material, wasting time. Basically for a multiple-guess, it is possible to keep on guessing to pass, but if it costs money to guess, it's best to know the material and not depend on chance that you might get it right. Click to expand...

• Dec 28, 2019

needairtime said: What happens if you get open review questions incorrect? Click to expand...

For the VE application for ARRL/VEC you have the open review as part of the application, just wondering if ARRL/VEC will deny your application if anything at all is wrong on the review responses?  

• Dec 29, 2019

needairtime said: For the VE application for ARRL/VEC you have the open review as part of the application, just wondering if ARRL/VEC will deny your application if anything at all is wrong on the review responses? Click to expand...

• Dec 30, 2019

I've been a W5YI VE and ARRL VE for about 5 years. As a W5YI VE, I also teach part of the Technician and General classes that our group does about 5 to 6 times per year. We just had 16 in our tech class in early December and all passed. The next weekend, our ARRL VE team (no classes) passed 10 new techs, and two extras. I really enjoy being a VE and being part of the process of bringing new people into the hobby. After 56 years of being a ham, being a VE is one of the things that most motivates my current interest in radio (along with all the new digital technology). Our VEs don't receive any payment. Whatever the group keeps is used for classroom expenses. Our contact ARRL VE sends the entire fee into ARRL. Being a VE is very rewarding, but if making a few bucks is your goal, there are much better ways to do that. By the way, one of our groups has a couple of general class hams, but the vast majority are Extra. The other, doing ARRL exams, is all Extra class. I highly recommend, as previously stated by others, that one work toward an Extra class license if they intend to participate fully in VE activities.  

I'm pretty sure I'm an awful teacher but probably can still help out with the exam sessions/grading/etc. when needed. Other than not being an accredited VE at this point, it wouldn't be against the rules for me to administer/grade Element 4. But without accreditation I can't even administer/grade Element 2 so that's the bigger problem at this point, heh. At this point I'm just thinking about sending the application and questionnaire to them, despite having some questions that I'm not sure if I answered the way ARRL/VEC expects. What's the worst that could happen, get a life ban from ARRL/VEC for answering a question wrong? Then I would have to try to get into the VE program through W5YI or Laurel or something instead? Also does one need to send in a copy to ARRL/VEC of our official license from FCC, or can they just look it up? I thought somewhere I read that this may be necessary but thought they could always FCC-ULS or QRZ my call sign. (I never requested an official copy of my license from the FCC, didn't care much for posting/framing it in my house.)  

• Jan 6, 2020

AA6IO said: I really enjoy being a VE and being part of the process of bringing new people into the hobby Click to expand...

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Open Book Review – Fill Out and Use This PDF

The Open Book form is an essential component of the ARRL VE Accreditation Material, providing a streamlined pathway for both prospective and currently accredited Volunteer Examiners (VEs) to engage with the Amateur Radio Clubs' VE program. It comprises crucial elements like the VE application, the Open Book Examination, and related answers, all derived from the ARRL VE Manual. For those looking to either become certified or refresh their understanding as an ARRL VE, completing the Open Book form represents a critical step in the process. Ready to take the next step? Click the button below to fill out the form.

Open Book Review PDF Details

The scrutiny and comprehension of the Open Book form within the Amateur Radio Volunteer Examiner (VE) community underlines a critical pathway for individuals aiming to bolster their involvement in amateur radio through certification processes. This form encapsulates a wealth of material extracted from the ARRL VE manual, including essential items such as the ARRL/VEC Letter of Transmittal, ARRL VE Application, and the Open Book Examination alongside its answers. Significantly, this document provides a comprehensive overview for both prospective and current VEs, guiding them through the intricacies of the examination and accreditation process. The Amateur Radio Clubs of Sun City Center, Florida—SCCARC and KPARC—highlight the encouragement for those of General class license or higher to pursue certification as ARRL VEs, outlining a structured process for review and accreditation that reflects the ongoing evolution of licensing classes and examination requirements as stipulated by the FCC. Changes in FCC license structuring and examination requisites underscore the document's relevance for VEs navigating the certification landscape. This landscape is further delineated by detailed explanations of service features provided by the ARRL/VEC, setting a framework for support, accreditation, and engagement within the amateur radio community. With the backdrop of regulatory adjustments and a shifting amateur radio environment, the document serves not only as an accreditation tool but as a reference point for VEs to sustain alignment with both ARRL and FCC standards.

Form Preview Example

ARRL VE Accreditation Material

Open Book Review and Exam

This document contains the following information which has been extracted from the ARRL VE manual:

1. ARRL/VEC Letter of Transmittal

2. ARRL VE Application

3. ARRL VE Open Book Examination

4. ARRL VE Open Book Examination with answers

The complete VE manual can be found at http://www.arrl.org/arrlvec/vemanual/index.html

The Amateur Radio Clubs of Sun City Center, Florida, SCCARC and KPARC, are proud of our VE program and encourage all those of General and higher class of license to become certified as an ARRL VE.

Currently certified VEs should read the letter of transmittal and review the open book examination and answers. No resubmission is required.

Dick Marshall K1KTK

VE Team Leader

Letter of Transmittal

TO: All Prospective and Currently Accredited ARRL Volunteer Examiners

RE: ARRL 8th Edition VE Manual

This new 8 th Edition ARRL VE Manual is for your use beginning April 15, 2000 and into the future. An expiration date has not been specified because most of the information contained in this manual will be valid for the next several years. Periodic updates to this manual will be distributed as needed in direct mailings or through the VE Express Newsletter. If you are a currently-accredited ARRL VE, skip over the following Prospective VE Section and move on to the “highlights” section and beyond. As a currently-accredited ARRL VE, you are not required to recomplete the VE application or Open Book Review, however you may wish to refresh your memory by retaking the review (at your option). If you have not updated your VE address, work and home telephone numbers or email address with us recently, please consider this as a

friendly reminder to do so. Call us at 800-927-7583.

Prospective VEs - Start Here... Following this page is our Volunteer Examiner Application Form and Open-Book Review. Please follow the instructions specified on the review and complete and return the Open-Book Review and the VE Application Form to the ARRL VEC when finished.

VEs accredited with a different VEC - Start Here… If you are currently accredited with-- and have participated in --another VEC program, you are not required to take the Open-Book Review (you may simply attach a copy of your other VEC credentials and a copy of your current amateur license to the application form). In most cases, your accreditation will be processed and sent back to you in three weeks, or sooner!

Before you complete the necessary form(s), photocopy them or carefully cut them out of the manual. When completed, forward them to us for processing. Binding these forms into the manual has saved the program thousands of dollars. For those of you applying for accreditation, the VE Manual is yours to keep for future reference; no charge!

If you choose not to apply for accreditation with the ARRL/VEC, please return this manual to us so that we may pass it along to another interested amateur (or you may retain it for a $10 fee). If you know of another amateur in your area who is interested in the ARRL VE program, please feel free to pass it along to him/her.

The following is a summary of highlights in this new edition printing. Effective April 15, 2000:

FCC license restructuring has reduced from six to three the number of FCC license classes available to future amateurs seeking new licenses—and has reduced the testing requirements to three written tests (exam Elements 2, 3 and 4) and one 5 WPM Morse code test (exam Element 1). The three license classes become (codeless) Technician, General and Extra class. Current Novice and Advanced class licenses will continue to be renewed indefinitely by FCC. Technician Plus licensees will be renewed as "Technician" licensees, but they will retain their Novice/Tech HF subband operating privileges.

Advanced class VEs can now administer exams through the General class license level (Elements 1, 2 and 3).

The 2006 ARRL/VEC test fee is $14.00 per candidate per sitting (not per element)—the fee applies to all exam elements as the previous free exam-element policy has been lifted (5 WPM tests are no longer free)--Chapter 3.

The FCC’s new Form 605 (and NCVEC Form 605 used only for transactions handled by a VEC) both took effect in August 1999--Chapter 5. Effective June 8, 1994, only new licenses or renewals will receive fresh ten-year license terms. All others (upgrades, address/name/call sign changes, etc) will retain the original license expiration date. The FCC requires that renewals be submitted no sooner than 90 days before the license is to expire. On-line electronic renewals are possible at no more than 90 days before the license expire date or up to two years after (the FCC URL is http://www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls –first choose “REGISTER, TIN/Call Sign” then choose “FILE, ULS Filing” in order to use the FCC’s on line system). Password issues can be resolved by calling FCC Tech Support weekdays at 202-414-1250.

A section on testing of the physically disabled includes FCC requirements for accommodating handicapped applicants--Chapter 7.

ARRL/VEC Services: Throughout this manual our services are explained in detail, including: the toll free VE Hotline -- 800-9-ARRL-VEC (800-927-7583) -- which can be found atop every even-numbered page; electronic access to the VEC and to VE information; VE team reimbursements of up to $4 for out-of-pocket expenses; Instant Accreditation for VEs who are accredited by another VEC-- and have participated in their program ; computer software for creating written or Morse code exams, fill-in-the-blank Morse code format; postage-paid mailing services for delivery of test session packages to the ARRL/VEC and many other services and features.

Sample forms currently being used by the ARRL/VEC -- Chapter 4 (see also Appendix A).

Any footnotes are found at the end of each chapter.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at the ARRL/VEC at 800-927-7583, or Email to [email protected] .

Maria A. Somma, AB1FM

Manager, ARRL VEC

VOLUNTEER EXAMINER APPLICATION FORM

Please type or print clearly in ink

(check one)

Call sign: ___________________ ο Extra What is your FCC-license expiration date?______________

Name : ___________________________________________________________________________________

(first, MI, last)

Mailing address (street or POB) : _____________________________________________________________

City : ___________________________________ State : _______ Zip : ________ Country : ______________

Day phone : (____)____________ Night phone : (____)______________ Email address : _________________

Do you have a call sign change (or Vanity call sign) pending with the FCC? .οYES οNO

Who can we contact to reach you, if you cannot be reached ?_______________________________________

(name) (phone)

Please provide a mailing address where UPS, daytime courier or mail delivery is reliably possible to you :

________________________________ _________________________________________________________

(name) (street address)

_______________________________________ _______________ _________________ _________________

If yes, when was the last test date at which you participated as an administering VE? (enter date) ___/___/____

And which VEC coordinated that test session? (enter VEC name here) _____________

(YOU MUST now attach a copy of your credentials from that VEC to this form).

CERTIFICATION

By signing this Application Form, I certify that to the best of my knowledge that the above information AND the following statements are true :

1) I am at least 18 years of age.

2) I agree to comply with the FCC Rules-(see especially Subpart F-§97.509).

3) I agree to comply with examination procedures established by the ARRL as Volunteer Examiner Coordinator.

4) I understand that the ARRL as my coordinating VEC, or I as an accredited ARRL VE, may terminate this relationship at any time, with or without any reason or cause.

5) I understand that violation of the FCC Rules or willful noncompliance with the VEC will result in the loss of my VE accreditation, and could result in loss of my Amateur Radio operator or station licenses, or both.

6) I understand that, even though I may be accredited as a VE, if I am not able or competent to perform certain VE functions required for any particular examination, I should not administer that examination (§97.525[a][3]).

___________________________________________________ ____________ ____________

Look over your form for completeness, make sure it is signed and then send it to the ARRL/VEC, 225 Main Street, Newington CT 06111 USA (or fax: 860-594-0339). If instant accreditation is sought, you MUST indicate the most recent test date at which you served as an administering VE and attach a copy of your other VEC credentials to this application. Else, your application must include your completed open-book review.

ARRL/VEC VEAPP 04/2000

Open-Book Review – 8 th Edition

ARRL/VEC Office -- Accreditations

225 Main Street

Newington, CT 06111

Fax: 860-594-0339

You, as a prospective ARRL/VEC Volunteer Examiner, are expected to read and thoroughly understand the ARRL/VEC's VE Manual , on which this review is based. Complete this Open-Book Review as soon as possible and return it to the ARRL/VEC (see address above) for grading. Before completing the review, either tear out these pages from the manual or photocopy them. We strongly recommend that you keep a photocopy of your completed review for your records.

This review is not a test. It is simply a review that covers the material in the VE Manual , 8th edition. Nevertheless, it’s an important part of the accreditation process, the concept of which is not shared by other VECs. Your having successfully completed this Open-Book Review certifies to us and the FCC that your training in the ARRL/VEC program is concluded and that you are prepared to serve as a Volunteer Examiner with the thousands of others who share your enthusiasm. Remember, though, that you may not serve as an ARRL/VEC-accredited Volunteer Examiner until we have reviewed your application (and its attachments) and formally approve your accreditation. Our approval is reported to you when you receive your ARRL/VEC-accreditation credentials in the mail.

Please allow three weeks for the ARRL/VEC staff to grade your Open-Book Review and process your VE credentials .

When completing this Open-Book Review, you may work alone or with others in researching the answers to the questions. However, please remember that all ARRL/VEC-accredited Volunteer Examiners will be individually responsible for understanding and abiding by the regulations and procedures as presented in this edition. To ensure this, each of you must return an individually completed review. Good luck, and thanks for working with the ARRL/VEC!

Please provide your full name and call…(name): _____________________________________ (call sign) ____________________

1. When may all or a portion of the test fees collected by a VE team be used to offset expenses not related to examinations (such as instruction or club expenses)? _____________________________________________________________________________

2. By how much can a VEC or a VE team vary the test fee that it charges each candidate to offset expenses

incurred in coordinating sessions during the calendar year? _______________________________________________________

3. Which FCC bureau administers the VE Program? ______________________________________________________________

4. Who is responsible for maintaining question pools from which all written-element exams must be designed and assembled?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. How old must an amateur be to be eligible for VE accreditation? __________________________________________________

8. What is the name of the ARRL/VEC program feature where an ARRL/VEC VE team (with the appropriate documentation provided) can accept the services of a VE who is accredited with a different VEC

and who has participated as a VE during at least one test session with that VEC ?

9. How long is the term of accreditation for ARRL/VEC Volunteer Examiners? ________________________________________

10. What is the minimum number of VEs needed to conduct a VEC-coordinated test session? ______________________________

11. Who must grade the examinations of each examinee? ___________________________________________________________

13. What license application form is used by an examinee to apply for an amateur operator license at a test session? _____________

14. Which exam element(s) can be administered by: A General-class VE? ____________ ; An Advanced class VE?____________

15. In the ARRL/VEC program, may a VE Team Liaison (or VE Session Manager) who holds a General or Advanced-class license receive test

16. Which license class, if any, must the VE Team Contact Person hold? ______________________________________________

17. Who decides when and where a test session will be held? _______________________________________________________

18. What is the test fee charged to each candidate who takes examination elements for Technician or higher class licenses, including upgrades, at an ARRL/VEC-coordinated session during 2006? ___________________________________________________

19. Under what circumstances may a VE team conduct a test session and administer tests without having publicly announced it in advance?

_______________________________ What about for testing of the handicapped?____________________________

20. If tests are given at a convention or hamfest, under what conditions may an examinee be required to pay to gain access to the test site?__________________________________________________________________________________________________

21. How long does an average ARRL/VEC test session last? _________________________________________________________

22. What VEC form is used for recording each examinee’s progress and pass/fail results for a test session?

23. Which application form is the only form currently accepted by the FCC for amateur license renewal or address change requests filed directly with FCC by mail or on line? ________________________________________________________________________

24. Under what conditions can FCC forms be privately reproduced? ___________________________________________________

25. When may an FCC Commercial Radiotele graph license be used for code-element credit?

26. If an unlicensed applicant passes Element 2 at an ARRL/VEC-coordinated session, what new license class (earned) should be indicated on the CSCE and on the NCVEC Form 605? __________________________________________________________

27. If an unlicensed applicant passes Elements 1 and 2 at an ARRL/VEC-coordinated session, what new license (earned) should

be indicated on the CSCE? ________________________________________________________________________________

28. In the ARRL VEC program, within ten days after a test session is administered, where must all NCVEC Form 605 applications for successful applicants and all other exam documents be sent (this includes any test documents passed or failed, or any other documents written on by the examinee)?___________________________________ ___________________________________

29. Can a VE, who has recently upgraded, serve as a VE exercising the privileges of the new higher class license before

30. When should applicants who are seeking an address change send an “NCVEC Form 605” by mail to the FCC? ______________

30. May an applicant who is applying for an upgrade at a test session also request a Vanity call using that same upgrade

32. Will persons served at a VEC-coordinated examination, who submit an application for an upgrade, address change or a systematic call sign change, receive a freshly renewed 10-year-term license from the FCC if their license is not to expire in 90 days or less?

33. Under current FCC Rules/procedures, when can an amateur license be renewed? ________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

34. In the ARRL/VEC program, what credit can be issued an applicant who successfully completes one or more exam elements, but who cannot document successful completion of lower elements? _____________________________________________________

35. For how long is credit, as shown on a CSCE, valid for upgrade purposes?____________________________________________

36. What must a Technician-class amateur, who passed the now-obsolete Element 3 exam before 3/21/1987, do to receive credit for Elements 1 and 3 toward a General class or higher upgrade? ______________________________________________________

38. May the VE Team deny an applicant the use of a calculator? If so, when? ____________________________________________

39. There are a number of accommodative procedures available to VEs to assist disabled examinees in taking Morse code tests.

Are these accommodations (as described on the back of NCVEC Form 605) available for 5 WPM Morse code tests? YES NO

40. To pass the one-minute solid-copy review, how many consecutive characters must an applicant correctly copy to successfully complete a 5 WPM Morse code exam? _________ characters

41. Should elements that an applicant successfully completed at an earlier (different test date/location) test session also be indicated on a

42. To whom are the three copies of the ARRL/VEC CSCE to be distributed? __________________________________

43. According to FCC Rules, how soon must a VE team mail/ship applications for successful (upgrading) candidates to the coordinating VEC after the test session has been conducted? ______________________________________________________

44. Is an examinee, who can document that he/she once held a Novice license--or a Technician license prior to

46. Numbers, punctuation and procedural signals count as how many characters in the Morse code test? _______

This concludes your review. Be sure to make a copy of your completed review (and/or your VE application) before mailing or faxing your review (and/or application) to us.

Our fax number is: 860-594-0339

ARRL/VEC, 225 Main St, Newington CT 06111 USA

1. When may all or a portion of the test fees collected by a VE team be used to offset expenses not related to examinations (such

as instruction or club expenses)? _____________________________________________________________________________

Retaining the fee and determining how much to withhold (up to $4 maximum) is decided by the VE team. To do so, the team must document the expenses it has incurred, or estimate what they will incur, in conducting their test session(s). Although no longer required by the FCC, the ARRL/VEC requires that expense and reimbursement records be retained by each VE team for three (3) years, and must be made available to the ARRL/VEC upon reques t.

incurred in coordinating sessions during the calendar year? _____________________________________________

If a VEC decides to collect a test fee for any of its exams during a calendar year, it must collect the same amount from every candidate it tests during that year. A VEC may determine each year whether it will collect a test fee, and, if so, what amount that test fee will be. VE team must abide by fee set by VEC.

The Volunteer Examiner Program is administered under the FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB). The operating authority for every amateur license is granted by the Licensing Division at the FCC's facility in Gettysburg PA.

In 1986, the FCC announced that it was turning the responsibility for maintaining the pools over to the VECs.

Hams seeking accreditation as VEs must be 18 years of age or older

Instant Accreditation (See page 7)

Your ARRL/VEC accreditation normally remains in effect for three years or until your Amateur Radio license expires, whichever comes first.

Each team of VEs must have at least three accredited examiners present to administer exams

In all cases, all three administering VEs must grade all Morse code and written-element exams.

Although administering VEs cannot be related to their candidates, they may serve on the same team with family members who are accredited examiners.

NCVEC Quick-Form 605 today serves as the generally recognized Amateur Service Application For Amateur Operator/Primary Station License requests

General may administer Technician; Advanced may administer Technician and General

Anyone, accredited or not, is eligible to serve as the Contact Person for your team.

When should you hold a session? Who determines when and where? How often are sessions needed in your area? These decisions are entirely up to you and your team.

20. Under what circumstances may a VE team conduct a test session and administer tests without having publicly announced it in advance?

Any session, whether it was scheduled months in advance or at the last minute, needs to be publicly announced at least once.

Accommodative procedures must be used when a handicapped applicant requires them .

the FCC requires that exam candidates cannot be charged a registration or any other kind of entrance fee to the hamfest, if they come only for the exams.

Dependent upon number of candidates and amount of paperwork

23. Which application form is the only form currently accepted by the FCC for amateur license renewal or address change requests filed directly with FCC by mail or on line?

FCC Form 605 is the only form FCC will accept by mail to perform amateur license modifications such as address, name, systematic call requests or license renewals.

FCC Form 605 may be reproduced privately as long as copies are exact duplicates of the FCC form

An unexpired (or expired less than 5 years) FCC-issued commercial radiotelegraph operator license or permit

Technician with HF privileges

31. Can a VE, who has recently upgraded, serve as a VE exercising the privileges of the new higher class license before

NO. you may only begin serving as an Extra Class VE as soon as your new Extra Class license data appears in the FCC's data base.

32. When should applicants who are seeking an address change send an “NCVEC Form 605” by mail to the FCC? ______________

FCC Form 605 is the only form FCC will accept by mail to perform amateur license modifications such as address, name, systematic call requests or license renewals. ARRL/VEC will accept renewal or modification requests from ARRL Members

33. May an applicant who is applying for an upgrade at a test session also request a Vanity call using that same upgrade

NO. NCVEC Form 605 cannot be used to apply for a Vanity call sign

32. Will persons served at a VEC-coordinated examination, who submit an application for an upgrade, address change or a systematic call sign

Within 90 days of expiration

CSCE for only those elements passed

35. For how long is credit, as shown on a CSCE, valid for upgrade purposes?_______________________________________

Submit proof of license date and NCVEC605 application

candidate must, at the VEs’ request, demonstrate that all of the calculator’s memories have been cleared.

The VE team has the right to refuse a candidate the use of a calculator if the team isn’t convinced that this has been accomplished.

41. To pass the one-minute solid-copy review, how many consecutive characters must an applicant correctly copy to successfully complete a 5 WPM Morse code exam? _________ characters

41. Should elements that an applicant successfully completed at an earlier (different test date/location) test session also be indicated on a CSCE

APPLICANT, VEC, VE TEAM

Report test results by the tenth day (10 days) after the test session date.

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Fill out the For instant accreditation have you, If yes when was the last test date, YOU MUST now attach a copy of your, CERTIFICATION, By signing this Application Form I, signature, call sign, date, Look over your form for, and ARRLVEC VEAPP fields with any details that will be requested by the software.

In the When completing this OpenBook, Please provide your full name and, When may all or a portion of the, By how much can a VEC or a VE, incurred in coordinating sessions, Which FCC bureau administers the, Who is responsible for, How old must an amateur be to be, May an amateur be accredited by a, May a VE be accredited, YES NO, YES NO, What is the name of the ARRLVEC, and documentation provided can accept segment, focus on the relevant particulars.

The field and who has participated as a VE, How long is the term of, What is the minimum number of VEs, Who must grade the examinations, May VEs who are related eg, YES NO, and What license application form is is going to be where one can put both parties' rights and obligations.

Finalize by reviewing the following fields and preparing them as required: Which exam elements can be, In the ARRLVEC program may a VE, YES NO, Which license class if any must, Who decides when and where a test, What is the test fee charged to, Under what circumstances may a VE, What about for testing of the, If tests are given at a convention, How long does an average ARRLVEC, and What VEC form is used for.

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Imagine Yourself as an Amateur Radio Volunteer Examiner

Getting a ham license used to be an involved process. Before 1984, most amateur radio licensing examinations were only administered directly or indirectly by the FCC. Amateur radio exams could be taken at one of the 23 FCC district offices scattered around the country. The FCC also had examiners who conducted quarterly sessions in major cities. I remember traveling to Pittsburgh to test for my General class license—about a 100-mile round trip.

Today it’s much more convenient. You’re likely to find several exam sessions nearby in any given month and even some in your own community. You can breathe easy—you’re taking exams given by peers instead of government employees, and in a much more relaxed atmosphere. These Volunteer Examiners (VEs) have been an essential part of ham radio for nearly 40 years.

Don’t forget that the answers to the license test are available online—in the form of question pools for each of the three amateur radio licenses. Typically, there are approximately 400 to 600 questions in the pools, depending on the license. The Dick Bash (KL7IHP) license guides, which were based on reports from those who took the exams, were the closest thing to having the pool of questions when I took my General class license test.

Why it Changed

The Volunteer Examiner program was established for several reasons, but primarily because of budget cutbacks. The federal government decided to discontinue administrating most categories of radio license examinations. On September 13, 1982, the Communications Act of 1934 was amended, permitting the FCC to accept the services of private organizations to prepare and administer examinations for people who wanted to obtain or upgrade an amateur radio license.

Records indicate the first VEC exam was given in Alaska on April 17, 1984. There are currently 14 FCC-appointed VECs, but 90% of all ham radio testing is conducted by only two of them, the ARRL-VEC and the W5YI-VEC. Ham testing is now widely available in all areas and in some foreign countries as well.

What VEs Do

It’s more than just giving tests. There’s a fair amount of preparation to be done before and after the session. I currently serve as an ARRL VE Team Liaison and contact person for those who sign up for testing sessions. My job is to secure all the testing materials we use and submit all the paperwork to the ARRL VEC after the session. Another person in our group arranges a location for testing, which we try to do several months in advance.

The remainder of our group takes care of the testing session. One welcomes those taking the exam, signs them in, and checks their identification and copies of their current license if they have one. Another collects the $15 testing fee. Others prepare the testing folder with their Form 605, test booklets, and answer sheets. We like to keep everything together since the completed test is passed on to three different VEs for grading.

During the test, we’re available to clarify directions and maintain a relaxed and positive atmosphere—no need for test anxiety. I still remember the FCC examiner who looked over my shoulder at the notes I took during a code test several decades ago. He said, “You won’t pass—you didn’t write enough down.” Things like that don’t happen at our sessions. If you’re wondering, I passed the code test.

Upon completion, three of the VEs check the test and a Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination is issued if they passed. If not, we’ll gently break the news and offer some suggestions on how they can become more successful the next time.

Regardless of outcome, we provide contact information if they have questions or need help. This is also a good opportunity to share info about our club, website, ham radio activities in the area, and weekly nets on local repeaters. With their email and permission, we’ll continue to keep them informed of things happening in the local ham world, including Field Day and hands-on activities for new hams.

Does it Make a Difference ?

Absolutely. You may be one of the first people they meet who’s enthusiastic about the best hobby in the world. You could possibly be sowing seeds which may take root sooner or later. At a time when many thought ham radio was dying, VE testing breathed some new life into ham radio. It made licenses more obtainable by many, and the number of ham radio operators continues to slowly but steadily increase.

Qualifications to be a VE according to §97.509(b)  

• Be accredited by the coordinating VEC
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Amateur Extra, Advanced or General Class in order to administer a Technician Class operator license examination
• Amateur Extra or Advanced Class in order to administer a General Class operator license examination
• Amateur Extra Class in order to administer an Amateur Extra Class operator license examination
• Not be a person whose grant of an amateur station license or amateur operator license has ever been revoked or suspended

If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Examiner and serving the amateur radio community, it’s easy. Here is information for the two major VE groups with links for the necessary documents and instructions:

ARRL VEC —Review the Volunteer Examiner Manual , paying special attention to Chapter 2: Becoming a Volunteer Examiner. Read the information that extends and supports the published manual: Supplemental Information . Complete and sign the VE Application form and open-book review.

W5YI VEC —Review the W5YI  VE manual and fill out the application . Be thoroughly familiar with the FCC Part 97 Rules & Regulations, especially Subpart F, 97.501 through 97.527.

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EXAM SESSION FORMS

PDF files of all Exam Session documents are available to print or download except for the CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination) form. Pleas e contact the ARRL VEC for a supply of CSCEs.

ALL SESSION FORMS (Print, Download or Fill interactively)

Individual form files are available in PDF to print or download. For your convenience, exam session forms are also available as interactive forms. Simply download, fill out, and print our easy to use fillable forms. NCVEC 605 Form is fully interactive including candidate and VE signatures. NCVEC 605 Form 2022 (fully interactive) - Front page ONLY NCVEC 605 Form 2022 (fully interactive) - Front and back (instructions)      VALID JULY 2022.       NCVEC 605 Form versions issued prior to September 2017      are obsolete and cannot be used. CSCE Form (fully interactive) - including candidate and      VE signatures. Contact the ARRL VEC Applicant Instructions   for FCC Basic Qualification Question - 2021 Applicant Payment Instructions   for the $35 FCC application fee - Nov. 2022     FRN and Email Required   by FCC - June 2021    Candidate Roster 2014 (interactive) Candidate Roster 2019 Test Session Report May 2022 (interactive) Test Session Report May 2022   Candidate Exam Answer Sheet (interactive) 2022   (candidate information      section and VE grading box only; for use with the blue overlay grading      templates; be sure to print with page size setting as 'actual size',      do not set as 'fit' to page.) Candidate Exam Answer Sheet 2022   (for use with the blue overlay      grading templates; be sure to print with page size setting as 'actual size',      do not set as 'fit' to page.)  Organize Test Package 2021 VE Survey 2021 Element Credit Table and Information 2014 RF Safety Information June 2021 ARRL Privacy Policy - last modified May 2024 Exam Session Registration Form 2015 Restock Materials Form July 2024 (interactive) coming soon Restock Materials Form July 2024   Fee Reimbursement (interactive)   Exam Session Poster (interactive) Exam Session Poster 2015   Youth Licensing Grant Program Reimbursement Form   (2022 version) interactive version Youth Licensing Grant Program Reimbursement Form   (2022 version) not interactive The Visit the   Youth Licensing Grant Program   webpage for more information and for the reimbursement instructions . VE Manual 9th Edition   Supplemental Information 2023 . This is information that extends and supports the   published VE Manual .    VE Application only 2022 (interactive) VE Application and Open Book Review 2022 (interactive) VEC Fact Sheet 2023    All ARRL VEC Forms are easy to duplicate, except for the CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination) because of the multiple copies. Contact the ARRL VEC for a supply of printed CSCE forms.  

Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination (CSCE) Forms

All ARRL VEC forms are easy to duplicate, except for the CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination) because of the multiple copies. Contact the ARRL VEC for a supply of printed CSCE forms or to request a fully interactive CSCE form (including VE and candidate signatures). ============================================== Completing the CSCE The following information should be filled in on the CSCE: test site (city and state), test date; candidate's signature, name, call sign (if any; if none, write "none") and complete address; and the signatures and call signs of the three VEs who administered the exams (all three are mandatory). In the Exam Elements Earned section, only the Exam elements passed at the session should be circled. Any element(s) failed or that aren’t taken at the session, must be lined out entirely. In the New License Class Earned section, the highest-level license class earned at the session should be circled and the other License Class Earned lines are to be crossed out completely. For example, an applicant who upgrades should be issued a CSCE that indicates the element(s) passed at the session and the new license class he/she has earned. Because a candidate can upgrade to only one license class at any given session, only one license class should be indicated on the upgrade CSCE, regardless of how many license classes he/she oversteps; such as progress from Technician to Extra class. All elements that were not taken or passed at the session should be lined out completely. Do not issue CSCEs to unsuccessful candidates. Instant Upgrade CSCEs for Candidates For General written test (Element 3) credit, an individual who took the combined 50-question Technician/General written test before March 21, 1987 will receive “grandfather” Technician licensees’ credit under Section 97.505 of the FCC Rules. The licensee will have to prove they held a Technician before March 21, 1987. The paperwork for upgrade only forms may not be sent directly to the FCC or the VEC office by the amateur (the upgrade must occur at a test session and follow the FCC guidelines). The candidate must hold a current Technician license and present themselves to a VE exam session with valid proof. Although no test will be taken, the candidate will pay the test session fee, fill out a 605 form and receive a new CSCE from the examiners before their license may be upgraded to General. An applicant who has proof of “grandfather” Technician licensees’ credit, but does not hold a current Technician license, must pass the Technician written exam before they can apply the “grandfather” credit towards a license. The candidate will pay the test session fee, fill out a 605 form and receive a new CSCE from the examiners showing a new General license earned. Expired Novice and Tech Plus licenses and Technician licenses issued   after   March 21, 1987 do not receive any credit. It is the applicant (not the VEs or coordinating VEC) who is responsible for supplying the evidence of holding valid "grandfather" credit. For detailed information on valid forms of credit, visit the Exam Element Credit web page. Candidates with Expired Licenses FCC Rule 97.505(a) offers partial credit to an examinee that has an expired General, Advanced, or Extra license. If an applicant held a General or Advanced license, and has proof, the FCC will afford credit for the General ( Element 3 ) written exam only. If an applicant held an Extra license, and has proof, the FCC will afford credit for the General (Element 3) and Extra (Element 4) written exams. The FCC does not allow expired license holders to automatically qualify for a license. At a minimum, the applicant must take the current 35-question Technician exam at a VE test session to return to Amateur Radio. Ex-licensees looking for expired license credit must present proof at the session. After the test is passed and the proof is submitted, the FCC will issue a new call sign and license at the appropriate license level. On the CSCE in the top right corner, circle the expired license Element credit(s) and indicate which (if any) elements were passed by circling them. If no elements were passed at the session because the candidate already re-tested and has a current license, cross out all Exam Elements Earned on the form. Depending on which level of an expired license is presented as proof, circle the New License Class Earned on the CSCE. It is the applicant (not the VEs or coordinating VEC) who is responsible for supplying the evidence of holding expired license credit. For detailed information about expired license credit including valid forms of proof, visit the Exam Element Credit web page. Expired Novice and Tech Plus licenses and Technician licenses issued   after   March 21, 1987 do not receive any credit.  

605 Form and Qualification Question Instructions (Felony Question)

Each applicant for a new license or license upgrade and three ARRL VEC accredited Volunteer Examiners must complete the NCVEC QUICK-FORM 605 APPLICATION 2022 at ARRL VEC coordinated exam sessions. All NCVEC 605 Form versions issued prior to September 2017 are obsolete and cannot be used . Here are step by step instructions for completing NCVEC 605 Form .  All applicants must provide an FRN and email address and must answer the Basic Qualification Question on the 605 Form at the exam session.  Applicants that answer "YES" for the basic qualification question must follow these FCC instructions and procedures . Applicants should be aware that some information about them will be made publicly available on the FCC's website : FCC Licensee Privacy    These instructions are an addendum to the VE Manual's 605 instructions.

Membership Handout for Licensees

Information from the VE Teams to their newly licensed examinees. VE Teams can offer ARRL membership information to successful candidates new to Amateur Radio.  Effortless to use! The small flyer, features a fun, eye-catching design that can be displayed to candidates at your exam session. Contact the ARRL VEC today for your supply of membership flyers.  

VE Manual Supplemental Information

VE Manual 9th Edition   Supplemental Information .   This is information that extends and supports the   published manual.   Additional information is also located on the VE Manual page.

VIDEO EXAM SESSIONS

Online Video-supervised Exams

The remote video exam session is conducted using an online video conferencing platform and a web-based examination system with on-screen tests. VE teams are using the ExamTools online examination system for the remote video-supervised sessions and for in-person sessions.

VE Team Requirements

ARRL VE teams must meet the following criteria and adhere to the following rules/policies to participate in the Remote Video sessions program. Long-standing, well established teams with a history of adhering to the highest degree of examination integrity, and that consistently submit accurate exam documents consistent with ARRL VEC standards will be selected to participate. Time and experience with in-person exam sessions is invaluable when transitioning to video sessions. Team leader experience at in-person sessions and/or training with an established team as a team leader for video sessions is required. Each VE team member must create an account to use the system (see the Creating an ExamTools Account and Remote Sessions section below for the complete instructions). Interested ARRL team leaders must create an account and receive an authorization email from the VEC granting permission to run exam sessions in ExamTools and to gain added functionality in the test session system. Qualified ARRL team leaders should email ARRL VEC ( [email protected] ) for the additional instructions and VEC approval for the VE team members to create accounts and train with an experienced team.

Examinees - Online Exams

Find in-person examination locations near you here: http://www.arrl.org/exam   If an in-person exam session cannot be located in a particular area or if taking an online exam is preferred, search for online examination teams here : Find an Online Exam Session   

EXAM SOFTWARE

Online or Printed Exams

The ExamTools web-based examination system can be used to administer online examinations or generate printed exams.  Online exams can be used at in-person or remote video supervised sessions.   

ExamTools System Information

The ExamTools system works well for online or printed examinations and includes registering and tracking candidates throughout the session, on screen exams and grading, online signing of CSCE and 605 forms by the candidate and examiners, logging and compiling session stats and VE participation list (test report summary), and output files for upload to the coordinating VEC. The program manages/handles almost everything needed to conduct a test session. VE teams are using the online exams for remote video-supervised testing and at in-person sessions. ExamTools printed exams have the option to use the GradeCam program for grading tests or our grading templates. GradeCam will automatically grade exams in seconds using the camera on a phone or computer, which eliminates the need to manually score the tests.  Our blue overlay grading template designs are loaded in the program and can be used with the ExamTools printed exams for manual grading of the tests. Creating an Account Each VE team member must create an account to use the system (see the Creating an ExamTools Account and Remote Sessions section below for the complete instructions). Interested ARRL team leaders must create an account and receive an authorization email from the VEC granting permission to run exam sessions in ExamTools and to gain added functionality in the test session system. Qualified ARRL team leaders should email ARRL VEC ( [email protected] ) for the additional instructions and VEC approval for the VE team members to create accounts and train with an experienced team.

Creating an ExamTools Account and Remote Sessions

ARRL VEs should use the ExamTools online examination system for online or printed exams . The web based program includes registering and tracking candidates throughout the session, on screen exams and grading, online signing of CSCE and 605 forms by the candidate and examiners, logging and compiling session stats and VE participation list (test report summary), and output files for upload to the coordinating VEC. The program manages/handles almost everything needed to conduct a test session. Instructions for conducting remote video-supervised exam sessions and using ExamTools online exams ARRL VE teams must meet the following criteria and adhere to the following rules/policies to participate in the video sessions program. Long-standing, well established teams with a history of adhering to the highest degree of examination integrity, and that consistently submit accurate exam documents in compliance with ARRL VEC standards will be selected to participate.

Time and experience with in-person exam sessions is invaluable when transitioning to video sessions. Team leader experience at in-person sessions and/or training with an established team as a team leader for video sessions is required. Online Exams VE Teams are using the ExamTools website for online examinations. The system works well for online or printed examinations and includes registering and tracking candidates throughout the session, on screen exams and grading, online signing of CSCE and 605 forms by the candidate and examiners, logging and compiling session stats and VE participation list (test report summary), and output files for upload to the coordinating VEC. The program manages/handles almost everything needed to conduct a test session. 1.   Watch the ExamTools training video playlist . 2.   Read all the information in the ExamTools Overview . In the Volunteer Examiners section learn how to register for an account . Other helpful information is located in the ExamTools documentation site.   To activate the account, you must upload an official copy of your FCC license under your account settings. It’s a quick process and takes only about 30 seconds as long as you upload the official license. Reference copies are not accepted. 3.   Register in the sandbox/development site at http://hamstudy.dev/ and then login at https://beta.examtools.dev/ with your team members. DO NOT use a Facebook or Google login: Make a "real" user. The sandbox/development site is used for any training purposes and runs on its own database to avoid any issues with the ExamTools production environment. 4.   Join the VE Discord discussion group at https://discord.gg/CsKrBmA where you'll find a lot of useful information including how to register for ExamTools.org as a VE and how to upgrade your VE Discord membership access. 5.   Join an existing ARRL VE team as a VE for a live training session . Volunteer in the #arrl Discord channel so you can see the real system in action.  6.   ARRL VE team leaders :   Review the ARRL VEC ExamTools FAQ and ExamTools Team Lead Instructions . ARRL team leaders (liaisons) must receive an authorization email from the VEC granting permission to run exam sessions in ExamTools. Email [email protected] or [email protected] for approval. Video-supervised Session We found that when very detailed instructions and procedures are given to candidates ahead of the sessions, it resulted in smoother sessions for everyone with less technical issues. We urge you to follow this guideline. An example has been provided from one of the teams currently conducting video-supervised sessions. Please refer to Columbia University ARC’s web page for highly detailed instructions on how to conduct the video portion of the session: https://www.w2aee.columbia.edu/content/remote-license-exams    You may use their wording (or similar text) when setting up video testing in your area.   Zoom is currently the most common video conferencing platform being used, but others can be utilized (such as Microsoft Teams, GoToMeeting, BigBlueButton, Discord, etc.) if the team is more familiar with those systems. The team will need to set up a way to electronically accept test fee payments directly (such as Paypal, Venmo, Zelle, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) and then the team will have to send the VEC a check or pay for the candidates with a credit card. We suggest beta testing your entire process with team members, family members, or known candidates (such as students from your club’s ham radio classes) before offering video exams in your community or to a wider audience.  E-File Session Documents To The VEC When the team is ready to go, we can set you up with access to our private and secure upload page for the session files and add your team to the list of available remote testing teams. The ExamTools system automatically creates a VEC Archive ZIP file for easy upload by the team. Our upload page will display an on-screen acknowledgement of receipt of the upload or a failure message when unsuccessful.

ARRL ExamTools VE teams must download and submit the VEC Archive file to the ARRL VEC. The VEC Archive is a ZIP file that includes the PDF and the full session JSON export. Other ExamTools downloadable files will not upload into our FCC data entry system. Please do not change the ZIP file name or alter the file in any way when uploading it to the VEC.

Additional files for element credit proof or youth licensing grant program reimbursements can be uploaded as a separate file(s) at the same time as the ZIP file but should not be included within the ZIPPED file. In-person Sessions and Printed Exams Information ExamTools online exams can also be used at in-person sessions. View the in-person sessions exam process instructions. The program will also create printed exams that utilize GradeCam for grading tests . GradeCam will automatically grade exams in seconds using the camera on a phone or computer, which eliminates the need to manually score the tests.   Our blue overlay grading template designs are loaded in the program. Therefore, they can be used with the ExamTools printed exams .   Follow the instructions above for creating an account and becoming an ExamTools Team Lead ( #6).   Read the printed exam creation instructions for more information. For teams that plan only to print the exams and will not be utilizing ExamTools during sessions, only the VE team leader will have to create an account. Teams can e-file session documents using our secure upload page. Contact the VEC department for instructions. Additional Training Recent video by Marcel Stieber AI6MS. Fully-Remote Amateur Radio Exam Administration :    Slides   or   Video   ExamTools System Documents:   https://docs.exam.tools/docs/   How ExamTools Works Overview:  https://docs.exam.tools/docs/ve/examtoolsoverview/   VE Overview and Training Videos:   https://docs.exam.tools/docs/ve/vetrainingvideos/  

VEC EXAM BOOKLETS

List of Current ARRL VEC Exam Booklets

VE Teams officially Field-Stocked by the ARRL VEC with a bulk quantity of our exam materials should c heck our VEC Exam Booklets page periodically to ensure your VEC printed exam booklets are up-to-date. Replenish your Field-Stocked exam supplies via our interactive web form. Go Now .  

Amateur Radio Question Pools

Keep up to date on the current question pools and the questions withdrawn formally from use by the National Conference of VECs Question Pool Committee.  

FCC INFORMATION

FCC Application Fee

The FCC charges a fee to issue an initial license as well as for other FCC services. The FCC $35 fee applies to  new, renewal, rule waiver, and modification applications that request a new vanity call sign. The fee will be per application. Administrative updates, such as a change of name, mailing or email address, and modification applications to upgrade an amateur radio licensee’s operator class or to request a sequentially issued call sign, are exempt from fees. The $35 Amateur application fee is effective April 19, 2022. Visit our  FCC application fee   page for further information.

FCC Exam Element Credit for Expired Licenses

FCC Rules, Candidate and VE information related to Exam Element Credit .  ========================================================================== Overview and VE Team Instructions Pertaining to the FCC Element Credit Rule The FCC has revised the Amateur Service Part 97 rules (July 2014) to grant partial written examination element credit to holders of expired General, Advanced and Extra licenses. The FCC also offers partial written examination element credit to Technician licenses issued BEFORE March 21, 1987. If an applicant held a Technician prior to 3/21/1987, and has proof, the FCC will afford credit for the General (Element 3) written exam only. The FCC does not require the applicant to have been continuously licensed. Expired Novice and Tech Plus licenses and Technician licenses issued after March 21, 1987 do not receive any credit. At VE exam sessions it is the applicant (not the VEs or coordinating VEC) who is responsible for supplying the evidence of holding a valid expired license or an old Technician license for credit. The FCC requires former licensees — those falling outside the 2-year grace period — to pass Technician (Element 2) in order to be relicensed. Expired license holders will not automatically receive credit on that day and may not operate as a new licensee until a new license is granted. To take advantage of the FCC expired license credit rule, holders of expired licenses must attend an exam session. There they would present a photo ID and their expired license proof, pay the $15 exam session processing fee and take the Technician exam. If an applicant held a Pre-March 1987 Technician or General or Advanced license, and has proof, the FCC will afford credit for the General (Element 3) written exam only. If an applicant held an Extra license, and has proof, the FCC will afford credit for the General (Element 3) and Extra (Element 4) written exams. At VE exam sessions it is the applicant (not the VEs or coordinating VEC) who is responsible for supplying the evidence of holding valid expired license credit. Acceptable forms of proof can be found on the Exam Element Credit web page. If sufficient proof is not presented, the candidate has the option of taking the Tech exam and earning just a new Tech license and then attending an exam session at a later date when they have the proper documentation. As always, the candidate will have to show a photo ID, present the proof, pay the $15 exam session processing fee, and fill out all forms to receive the paper upgrade. The upgrade is not automatic and may NOT be sent directly to the FCC or to the VEC by the candidate. Expired licensees will not automatically get their old call sign back. The FCC will issue a new sequentially issued call sign. If they desire to obtain their old call sign they may try to do so through the FCC vanity call sign program. However, someone else may have already obtained their old call sign as a vanity call sign and therefore it would not be available. Current Technician licensees just presenting the proof would need to attend a VE session and the paperwork would be handled as if they are taking an exam. The candidate will have to show a photo ID, present the proof, pay the $15 exam session processing fee, and fill out all forms to receive the paper upgrade. The current Technician license combined with the old Technician license or an expired General, Advanced, or Extra license, would allow the candidate to upgrade at the session without taking any exams. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- VE Teams -- How to Fill out Forms At a session, the candidate must present a photo ID and their expired license credit, pay the $15 test session fee and fill out the NCVEC form 605. If the Element 2 written exam is passed and the expired license proof is valid, the VE team will issue the candidate a CSCE for the upgrade to a General or Extra class license depending on the documentation presented.

On the CSCE in the top right corner, circle the expired license Element credit(s) and indicate which (if any) elements were passed by circling them. If no elements were passed at the session, cross out all Exam Elements Earned on the form. Depending on which level of an expired license is presented as proof, circle the New License Class Earned on the CSCE. On the Candidate Roster you will indicate which (if any) elements were passed or failed as you normally would. For applicants that present expired licenses as credit you will write “CL” or “CT” for license credit in the appropriate column or columns (Element 3 and/or Element 4 column) depending on which level of an expired license is presented as proof. Then fill in the License Earned at the session in that column. An example of how to fill out the candidate roster can be found on this page in the section above titled "ALL SESSION FORMS" (page 2 of document).  The VE Team must mail the proof with the session paperwork to the coordinating VEC. R emember the burden of proof falls on the candidate, not the VE team or the VEC.  

Part 97: Amateur Radio Service Rules and Regulations

Subpart F : Qualifying Examinations Systems govern the VEC program.  

Obtain a License Copy

================================== FCC Goes Paperless:   On   December 30, 2020, the FCC Wireless Services ceased the printing of paper licenses.   The FCC will now only provide these documents electronically through email. ================================== There are a number of ways a license holder can obtain an official FCC copy of their license. Find the complete instructions on our Obtain a License Copy web page. An unofficial "reference copy" can always be printed from the FCC’s ULS License database  License Search web page. New licensees must register their SSN (Social Security Number) with the FCC and receive a FRN (FCC Registration Number) before the exam date.  VE Teams may verify license records or printouts of licenses from the following sources: the official license printed or reference license printed from or located on the FCC website, and license data printed from or located on the ARRL website or the QRZ website.  The candidate is require to show proof of the current license to the team but the team is no longer required to collect and submit the proof to the VEC.  Expired license proof must be submitted to the team and to the VEC for processing to the FCC. These photocopies will not be returned.  T his information can be found on the ARRL web page what to bring to an exam session .    

FCC Privacy Information

Applicants should be a ware that some information about them will be made publicly available on the FCC's website : FCC Licensee Privacy   

POST SESSION

Uploading and Shipping Exam Sessions to ARRL VEC

The preferred method of shipping exam session packages to the ARRL VEC is United States Postal Service (USPS) First Class Mail with an ARRL VEC supplied pre-paid postage label . Upload the session via our secure web page before shipping the completed the package .

Using United States Postal Service (USPS) First Class Mail

For shipping your exam session results to ARRL VEC office via First Class Mail, simply affix the self-adhesive business-reply label to the white self-seal envelope or any plain white envelope and present your exam session package at any post office, or place it in a convenient nearby postal service drop box, or simply hand it to your postal carrier. The postage will be billed to our ARRL VEC Business-Reply Account. Include the teams’ or the Liaisons’ return address on the envelope. USPS stipulates that this information must be displayed on the envelope. Any post office can refuse a package that does not have a return name and address label attached.  We request your assistance in making the most effective use of this service by processing and shipping your sessions as soon as possible but no later than ten days after the exam. Upload the completed session documents for quicker service. New and upgraded licenses are issued within 1 to 2 business days (for weekend sessions) and are usually issued on the same day for weekday sessions. See information in the section: Upload Completed Session Via the Web

E-File Completed Sessions to ARRL VEC

Session Documents Upload Webpage Upload the completed session documents to the VEC for quicker service. Successful new and upgraded license applications are transmitted to the FCC within 1 to 2 business days (for weekend sessions) and are usually transmitted on the same day for weekday sessions . The US Postal Service has been slow and unreliable with moving mail and packages through their system. Some exam session packages have been unexpectedly delayed.

Please contact the VEC department ( [email protected] ) for the information on e-filing exam session documents through our secure upload page.  Uploading sessions as a PDF file (scanned documents) allows for quicker processing to the FCC by the VEC .  Additionally, a note should be included in the mailed package to indicate the session has already been uploaded and transmitted to the FCC.  Authorized VEs will be sent the upload page URL which is hidden from the public. An FCC Registration Number (FRN) is mandatory. The VE team must only accept FRNs at the session. Social Security Numbers (SSN) are not permitted on any exam documents or session files that are uploaded per the FCC. Candidates will have to be registered in the FCC system and have FRNs already issued. New license applicants must create an FCC user account and register their SSN in the FCC Commission Registration System ( CORES ) before attending exam sessions.  For in-person sessions using paper exams, combine the scanned session documents into one large PDF file.  If needed, the VE can upload multiple session files that are 40MB or less. The page displays an on-screen acknowledgement of receipt of the upload or a failure message when unsuccessful. The team must include a note or a printout of the upload confirmation page inside the mailed session package with the paper documents stating the date the session was electronically submitted to the VEC. ARRL ExamTools teams should download and submit the VEC Archive file to the ARRL VEC. The VEC Archive is a ZIP file that includes the PDF and the full session JSON export. Other ExamTools downloadable files will not upload into our FCC data entry system. P lease do not change the ZIP file name or alter the file in any way when uploading it to the VEC. Additional files for element credit proof or youth licensing grant program reimbursements can be uploaded as a separate file(s) at the same time as the ZIP file but should not be included within the ZIPPED file.  The page displays an on-screen acknowledgement of receipt of the upload or a failure message when unsuccessful. These sessions do not have to be mailed to the VEC.  ==========================================================

Instructions for Examinees Registering for an FCC FRN before Exam Day Applying for a new Amateur Radio license? Register in CORES ( CO mission RE gistration S ystem) and receive your FRN (FCC Registration Number) before sitting for your exam to ensure your new license is processed quickly and easily through the FCC's ULS (Universal Licensing System). To conduct business with the FCC, you must register through the FCC CORES and be assigned an FRN. This number will be used to uniquely identify you in all transactions with the FCC. View the FCC web page New Users Guide to ULS for step by step instructions on the registration process or the Commission Registration System Video Tutorials page for videos that help guide CORES users through a variety of situations . For assistance, submit a help request on the FCC’s Support Services page or call FCC at 877-480-3201 (Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. ET). What if a candidate shows up on exam day without an FRN? Please have the candidate register in CORES at the session on their smart phone or on a computer. Candidates should not need to be turned away from the session because the registration process only takes a few minutes to complete. Additionally, candidates that pre-register in CORES will have all their login and password information and can access their FCC license record as soon as it’s issued.

Online or In-person Exams

Find in-person examination locations near you here: www.arrl.org/exam   If an in-person exam session cannot be located in a particular area or if taking an online exam is preferred, search for online examination teams here : www.arrl.org/online-exam-session     

Requirements for an ARRL VEC Session

Here is a detailed list describing the items exam applicants are required to bring to the exam session and prohibited from using during the test. What to Bring to an  Exam Session All applicants must provide an FRN (FCC Registration Number) (see FRN instructions below) and must answer the Basic Qualification Question (felony conviction status question) on the 605 Form at the exam session.  Applicants that answer " YES " for the basic qualification  question must follow these   FCC instructions and procedures . Per FCC rules, a valid   email address   is also   mandatory  on the application form to receive FCC correspondence, including the official copy of your Amateur Radio license. Applicants should be a ware that   some information about them will be made publicly available on the FCC's website including name, address , and felony conviction status:   FCC Licensee Privacy  

How to Obtain an FRN (FCC Registration Number)

Examinees are   required   by the FCC to submit your FRN with your license application form.   New license applicants must create an FCC user account and register their Social Security Number (SSN) in the FCC Commission Registration System ( CORES ) before attending exam sessions.  Registrants will be assigned an FRN which will be used in all license transactions with the FCC.   For instructions on how to register your SSN and receive an FRN from the FCC, visit the   CORES Registration page and the   FCC's Registration instructions   page. Per FCC rules, a valid   email address   is also   mandatory   on the application form.

ARRL Exam Practice

Before exam day, candidates can take on screen practice exams for all license levels to ease their nerves. ARRL Exam Review for Ham Radio ™ is free , and users do not need to be ARRL members. The only requirement is that users must first set up a site login (this is a different and separate login from your ARRL website user registration).  

Resources for the Disabled

Handihams is a non-profit organization that provides assistance for individuals with disabilities.  

ARRL License Manuals Online Supplements

Check out the online supplements to the ARRL Ham Radio License Manual, the ARRL General Class License Manual and the ARRL Extra Class License Manual . The supplements offer additional information and reference sources to provide in depth explanations and enhance background knowledge.

Youth Licensing Information

ARRL Youth Licensing Grant Program  ARRL will cover the one-time $35 FCC application fee for new license candidates younger than 18-years old for tests administered under the auspices of the ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (ARRL VEC). The $35 FCC application fee will be reimbursed after the   ARRL VEC   receives the completed reimbursement form and the new license has been issued by the FCC. The reimbursement check will be mailed to the fee payer. Also, candidates younger than 18-years old would pay a reduced exam session fee of $5 to the ARRL VEC VE team at the time of the exam. For more information and for the reimbursement instructions, visit the   Youth Licensing Grant Program   webpage.

Candidates and VE Teams

Information for VE Teams and examinees on the current FCC application fee and the ARRL VEC exam fee.  

The FCC charges a fee to issue an initial license as well as for other FCC services. The FCC $35 fee applies to new, renewal, rule waiver, and modification applications that request a new vanity call sign. The fee will be per application. Administrative updates, such as a change of name, mailing or email address, and modification applications to upgrade an amateur radio licensee’s operator class or to request a sequentially issued call sign, are exempt from fees. The $35 Amateur application fee is effective April 19, 2022. Visit our  FCC application fee   page for further information.  

ARRL Examination Fee

Each examinee at each ARRL VEC coordinated examination session is charged the same fee in accordance with an annually established fee schedule. The fee charged to the examinee is the actual out-of-pocket costs incurred in preparing, processing and administering that particular examination. If a fee is collected, it may be used to reimburse out-of-pocket expenses regardless of whether the examinee passes or fails the examination or even if the examinee fails to appear for the designated examination session. Candidates younger than 18-years old will pay a reduced exam session fee of $5 to the ARRL VEC Volunteer Examiner team when taking an exam. Proper identification must be presented to and verified by the team, per the procedures for all exam candidates ( what to bring to an exam session ).     The $5 fee is for all candidates under the age of 18 regardless of the exam level   taken . Additionally, ARRL will cover the one-time $35 FCC application fee for new license candidates younger than 18-years old for tests administered under the ARRL VEC program. For more information and for the reimbursement instructions, visit the   Youth Licensing Grant Program   webpage. Check the ARRL VEC’s current Exam Fee .  

VE Team Expense Reimbursement

FCC permits VECs and VEs to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket costs incurred in preparing, processing and administering examinations. Check the ARRL VEC’s current Reimbursement Policy .

ARRL Youth Licensing Grant Program  ARRL will cover the one-time $35 FCC application fee for new license candidates younger than 18-years old for tests administered under the ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (ARRL VEC) program. The $35 FCC application fee will be reimbursed after the   ARRL VEC   receives the completed reimbursement form and the new license has been issued by the FCC. The reimbursement check will be mailed to the fee payer. Also, candidates younger than 18-years old would pay a reduced exam session fee of $5 to the ARRL VEC VE team at the time of the exam. For more information and for the reimbursement instructions, visit the   Youth Licensing Grant Program   webpage.

REGISTER SESSIONS

Register ARRL VEC Exam Sessions and Order Exam Supplies

ARRL VEs can register Amateur Radio exam session dates and locations and order exam supplies quickly and easily by using our interactive ARRL Exam Session Registration Form . A ll ARRL VEC exam session materials, including software and forms, are supplied free of charge to ARRL accredited VE Team Liaisons (leaders).  We even pay for shipping to and from the VEC.

ARRL Field Stocked Teams

ARRL VE Teams officially Field-Stocked by the ARRL VEC with a bulk quantity of our exam materials should check our VEC Exam Booklets page periodically at www.arrl.org/vec-exam-booklets to ensure your VEC printed exam booklets are up-to-date. Field-Stocked VE teams should also be vigilant about keeping us informed of who has possession of the exam supplies. Notify us immediately when the teams’ field-stock changes hands to ensure that any exam updates will be mailed to and received by the proper person. To r estock exam supplies via the on-line VE team restock form or to see if your team qualifies to be field-stocked with a year’s supply of exam materials visit www.arrl.org/field-stocked-ve-teams .

Non-ARRL Teams

Non-ARRL Volunteer Examiner Teams may register upcoming exam session dates and locations by visiting the Non-ARRL exam session registration page.

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• ARRL VEC Exam Fees
• Emergency Communications Field Examiners

Radio amateurs with field experience and who have completed the relevant course work, may apply to mentor students who are taking ARRL’s emergency communications courses online or to instruct classes in their local community.

Locate registered exam sessions in a specific area or on a specific date.

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ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio ® 225 Main Street Newington, CT, 06111-1400 USA Tel: 1-860-594-0200 | Fax: 1-860-594-0259 Toll-free: 1-888-277-5289 hq@arrl.org

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CURRENT ARRL VEC EXAM BOOKLET VERSIONS

VE Teams officially Field-Stocked by the ARRL VEC with a bulk quantity of our exam materials should c heck here periodically to ensure your VEC printed exam booklets are up-to-date.  VE Teams that routinely check for these updates safeguard against administering outdated exams to candidates. Field-Stocked VE Team Liaisons can register an exam session or request a restock of exam supplies via the web. Want to become an officially Field-Stocked VE Team Liaison? View the requirements on the Field-Stocked VE Teams page.

Current Booklet Versions

               TECHNICIAN EXAMS (Element 2)                   Effective July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2026                 2-1-2022                 2-2-2022                 2-3-2022                   2-4-2022                 2-5-2022                 2-6-2022                 2-7-2022    (no diagrams )                 2-8-2022    (no diagrams )                 2-9-2022    (no diagrams )                   2-10-2022                 2-11-2022                 2-12-2022   (no diagrams )                GENERAL EXAMS (Element 3)                 Effective July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2027                 3-1-2023   (no diagrams) (ONE replacement question see below)                 3-2-2023   (no diagrams)                 3-3-2023                   3-4-2023                   3-5-2023   (ONE replacement question see below)                 3-6-2023   (no diagrams)                 3-7-2023   (no diagrams)                 3-8-2023   (no diagrams)                 3-9-2023   (no diagrams) (ONE replacement question see below)                 3-10-2023   (no diagrams)                 3-11-2023   (no diagrams) (ONE replacement question see below)                  3-12-2023                  EXTRA EXAMS (Element 4)                 Effective July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028                  4-1-2024                 4-2-2024                  4-3-2024                 4-4-2024   (no diagrams)                 4-5-2024                    4-6-2024                  4-7-2024                 4-8-2024   (no diagrams)                 4-9-2024                  4-10-2024                 4-11-2024                  4-12-2024  ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------                EXAM BOOKLETS REMOVED FROM USE                NONE                EXAM BOOKLETS WITH CORRECTIONS  OR                  REPLACEMENT QUESTIONS                A new valid question will be placed on                top of a flawed or withdrawn question.                3-1-2023 (General Exam) -- Question 23 requires a replacement                question.   General Booklets Replace One Question July 2024                  3-5-2023 (General Exam) -- Question 1 requires a replacement                question.  General Booklets Replace Two Questions Dec 2023                  3-9-2023 (General Exam) -- Question 16 requires a replacement                question.  General Booklets Replace Two Questions Dec 2023                   3-11-2023 (General Exam) -- Question 23 requires a replacement                question.   General Booklets Replace One Question March 2024   Contact The ARRL VEC by email:  [email protected]  

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ARRL VE Teams registering an exam session date and location and requesting exam supplies should use this page.

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DXCC Program , W100AW & W1AW QSLs via Bureau , Centennial QSO Party , Operating Specialties , International Grid Chase 2018 , Hiram Percy Maxim 150th Birthday Celebration , Cycle 25 , Transatlantic , Special Event Stations , Operating Resources , Volunteers On the Air , QSL Service , NPOTA , Contests , Awards , Logbook of The World , Amateur Code , Amateur Radio Direction Finding , W1AW

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ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio ® 225 Main Street Newington, CT, 06111-1400 USA Tel: 1-860-594-0200 | Fax: 1-860-594-0259 Toll-free: 1-888-277-5289 hq@arrl.org

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• Become an ARRL VE

ARRL Volunteer Examiners Serve the Community

If you are interested in becoming an ARRL Volunteer Examiner (VE) and serving the Amateur Radio community, it's easy and free !                 _______________________________________________ Follow these three steps to become an ARRL Volunteer Examiner:

1.    Review the Volunteer Examiner Manual , paying special attention to       Chapter 2: Becoming a Volunteer Examiner. Read the information that       extends and supports the   published manual: Supplemental Information .  

2.    Complete and sign the VE Application form and open-book review *       (interactive application and 40 question review).  

      ARRL VEC       225 Main St       Newington, CT 06111  USA

      Fax: 860-594-0339

      Email: [email protected]    Once accredited, you will receive in the mail a colorful laminated VE badge to wear at exam sessions and a certificate suitable for framing. Please allow 3-4 weeks for the ARRL VE badge and certificate to arrive.                      * If you are already accredited with a VEC organization outside the         ARRL, you must submit a copy of your accreditation certification         along with a completed ARRL VE Application form (interactive)         to the above address. Additional information is available on the VE Manual page and the VE Resources page.    _____________________________________________________________   

Maintaining ARRL VE Accreditation

Contact the ARRL VEC department to update your VE record.  Toll free: 1-800-927-7583 (1-800-9 ARRL VE) Email:  [email protected]      Renew or Reinstate* Upgrade or Call change Lost credentials Address, email, or contact information changes Confirm accreditation status: A VE’s accreditation status can also be confirmed via the ARRL VEC’s VE Session Counts web page.   *ARRL accreditation renewal is automatic for ARRL VEs who maintain a current address, contact phone number and/or email address on file at the VEC office and have participated at an exam session within the past 5 years. A Volunteer Examiner whose FCC license has expired is not eligible to administer any exam element while the license remains expired. The VE accreditation is valid only if the VE's amateur license is current and valid.  

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Find an ARRL license exam session in your area.

EXPLORE ARRL

DXCC Program , W100AW & W1AW QSLs via Bureau , Centennial QSO Party , Operating Specialties , International Grid Chase 2018 , Hiram Percy Maxim 150th Birthday Celebration , Cycle 25 , Transatlantic , Special Event Stations , Operating Resources , Volunteers On the Air , QSL Service , NPOTA , Contests , Awards , Logbook of The World , Amateur Code , Amateur Radio Direction Finding , W1AW

Licensing, Education & Training

Courses & Training , What is Ham Radio , FCC License Info and Forms , License Certificates , Youth Licensing Grant Program , Volunteer Examiners , Edu Dept Home , Learning Center Help , Getting Licensed , Newly licensed? Learn More , Volunteer Instructors/Mentors , Amateur Radio in the Classroom , Learning Programs , Gordon West

Member Directory , myARRL , Blind Membership , Join ARRL/Renew Membership , member feedback , Dues Increase FAQ , Techquestion , Please Confirm Your Information , Member Discounts , Member Bulletin , QST Reissue , Membership Certificate , Member Support , Connecticut Member Social , Silent Key Submission Guidelines , Login Instructions , Dues Survey , Gift Membership , New Join , 3-Year Special Offer , 2024 Dues Rates , ARRL Groups , Student

Regulatory & Advocacy

State and Local , Volunteer Consulting Engineer Program , Volunteer Counsel Program , CCR Study Information , International , Technical Relations Office , Federal , Volunteer Monitor Resources , Federal RFI Preemption , Antenna Regulation and Zoning , Volunteer Monitor Program

NTS Manual , Public Service Resources , Volunteer Form for Deployment Consideration , 2018 Hurricanes , Hurricane Maria - 2017 , Hurricane Irma - 2017 , Hurricane Harvey Response , Ham Aid , Public Service Honor Roll , 2019 Hurricanes , 2020 Hurricanes , 2021 Hurricanes , Puerto Rico - Caribbean Recovery 2017 , Kentucky ARES Summit and Survey , Hurricanes , Served Agencies and Partners , SKYWARN Recognition Day , NTS , 2024 Hurricanes , ARES

ARRL References , ARRL Lab , Tech Portal , Radio Technology Topics , Technical Information Service , ARRL Clean Signal Initiative , Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)

Clubs , Volunteer Opportunities , Youth , Recruiting & Outreach , The ARRL Foundation , Donate to ARRL , Collegiate Amateur Radio , Hamfests and Conventions Calendar

Publications & Online Store

ARRL Publication Dealers , ARRL Store , List all Products , Return Policy , Shipping and Tax , Customer Service/Support , Handbook , Product Notes

Site Index , Centennial , ARRL Strategic Plan , Advertising and Other Business Opportunities , ARRL on the Purpose of Amateur Radio , Library , Ideas , Copyright , Media and Public Relations , Visit Us , Organization Structure , Privacy Policy , General Information , ARRL Social Media , Contact ARRL , Employment Opportunities

ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio ® 225 Main Street Newington, CT, 06111-1400 USA Tel: 1-860-594-0200 | Fax: 1-860-594-0259 Toll-free: 1-888-277-5289 hq@arrl.org

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