Becoming an Amateur Radio Operator?

Amateur Radio operators are licensed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority. To gain a license, you first need to pass a technical and operating assessment process for the grade of license that you wish to hold. There are several license grade options here which are designed to match someone’s skills and desires.

  • Foundation License
    • Beginner level Theory & Regulations (combined exam)
    • 3.5 / 7 / 21 / 28 / 144 / 430 MHz Bands
    • Low Power (10W PEP)
  • Standard License
    • Intermediate level Theory and Regulations (separate exams)
    • 3.5; 7; 14; 21; 28; 52; 144; 430; 1240; 2400 and 5650 MHz bands
    • Moderate Power (100W PEP or 30W Avg)
  • Advanced License
    • Higher level Theory and Regulations (separate exams)
    • All available amateur radio bands.
    • Higher Power (400W PEP, 120W Avg)

Where can I learn what I need?

To start with, come along to one of the Amateur Radio Experimenters Group meetings and meet some active Amateur Radio operators. They can give you an idea of what you can do inside the hobby.

Next, one of the best ways to get your license is to RES16logo_150study online. One of the very well known online course providers is the Radio & Electronics School which is setup specifically to help you get your amateur radio license, and is well suited for Standard and Advanced license training.

Foundation license courses and examinations for all license levels are held regularly here in Adelaide, lead by Paul Hoffman VK5PH. You can find out more about these sessions on this page.

After completing the course, you then need to sit an assessment. AREG has the ability to arrange an assessment to be conducted for you in conjunction with other radio clubs in Adelaide.

How do I apply for my license?

Once you have passed the assessment you then need to apply to the ACMA for your ACMA recognition certificate, after which you can apply for a callsign. Your examination instructor can assist you in completing this process.

Where can I find out more about the process?

Amateur Radio Examinations are run by by volunteers under an arrangement with the ACMA. The ACMA Amateur Radio website has lots of information on the examination and licensing processes, and the new Amateur Class Licensing system.

Once I have my license, then what?

Once you have your license, members of AREG will be able to help you get your own station established!