EARS provides training for Amateur Radio licensing and provides education about the principles of electricity and electronics as well as good Amateur Radio practices on an as-needed basis. EARS prepares students to pass FCC Amateur Radio licensing examinations and helps new operators get on the air and explore various amateur radio activities.

    To transmit on the amateur radio frequencies you must obtain a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC designates amateur frequency bands and issues three classes of amateur radio licenses. There is no charge for any class of amateur radio license.

    Most hams begin by obtaining the Technician license. After gaining some experience as a Technician, many hams "upgrade" to the General license and finally to the Amateur Extra license. Each upgrade carries privileges to transmit on additional frequencies.

    A Technician license allows you to use six VHF and UHF bands, including the popular 2-meter and 6-meter bands. The 2-meter band is commonly used for local and regional communication. Worldwide communication is possible on 2-meters using satellites or computer interface. Long-distance contacts are possible on 6-meters using only your radio.

    To obtain a Technician license you must pass a written test consisting of 35 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers FCC regulations, basic electronics theory, and operating practices. A passing grade is 74%, or 26 correct answers out of 35.

There is no Morse Code requirement for obtaining any class of Amateur Radio license.

    Obtaining a General class license involves passing an additional 35-question test. The General license carries privileges to transmit on portions of nine additional HF bands. Contacts over thousands of miles are common on these bands.

    The Amateur Extra license is obtained by passing an additional 50-question written test. The Extra licensee is entitled to use all the FCC-designated amateur radio frequencies.