Why you should get your Ham Radio License?

With most of us leading super busy lives, the idea of volunteer with your local amateur radio club – giving your time and energy to a cause without financial reward – may seem an impossible task. I mean, how can we fit anything else into our already jam-packed schedules? However, volunteering in ham radio is important for many reasons and doesn’t have to take up too much time. And, in fact, the benefits of becoming a ham are vast for the ham volunteer – not just the community, individual or organization receiving their assistance. It’s never too late to get your ham radio license. Keep reading to find out how to get a ham radio license and why it’simportant.

Getting your ham radio license and start volunteer builds confidence

Gain confidence. Once you get your ham radio license you can volunteer as a ham which can help you gain confidence by giving you the chance to try something new and build a real sense of achievement.  Be part of the ham community can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family. Being the volunteer for an evening net with ham all trying to make a contact. Takes skill and leadership.

Ham volunteering is good for your health

No, we aren’t making this up. Studies have found that when you stop thinking about your own problems and focus on others, your stress levels start to decrease. Apart from this, your immune system is also strengthened and your overall sense of life satisfaction increases. Many ham radio clubs once you are a licensed ham will let you host and amateur radio nets and be part of the emergency communication teams.  As a ham, you will truly make a difference. Volunteering can have a real and valuable positive affect on people, communities and society in general, once you get your ham radio license you can do so much more.

Learn new skills. 

Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience and sometimes even qualifications. There was a time in Ham radio that you could learn it all. With today’s development and interest in internet-connected amateur radio technologies. With new hardware and software being developed, the old model of amateur radio is changing. There is so much happening in so many corners of Ham radio, that you will never learn it all. But there is a new skill just waiting for you to learn. After you get your ham radio license the learning never stops.

A great hobby for someone looking to volunteer and make a difference 

At the end of the day, getting your ham radio license is just fun and there is something for everyone no matter what the interest. Most volunteers simply have a great time, regardless of why they do it. From speaking with astronauts to learning Morse code, Ham Radio presents unique experiences to its operators. In addition to communication, public service and a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

So where do you start in getting your ham radio license in the USA?

Now that we have your interest in becoming a Ham Radio operator. Check out the American Radio Relay League’s website for more information on the types of licenses available, where to take a licensing exam and other information on how to get started in Amateur Radio!

Can you take your ham radio test online?

The simple answer: YES! The FCC released a public notice on April 30, 2020, confirming that the ham radio license exam may be held remotely. There are lots of apps and online tools to help get ready for the ham radio license test but don’t forget to read the ham radio license study guide.

Are you now interested in getting a ham radio license in Canada?

The only way to get your Canadian Amateur Radio Operator Certificate is to successfully complete the Canadian basic amateur qualification examination. Amateur Radio Basic and Advanced Qualification courses are now being provided with both online and in person. We are pleased to include information about any courses provided by Canadian Amateur Radio Clubs throughout the country. You can find the ham radio license test is now found online and with a ham radio license study guide.