TL;DR — Quick Checklist
- ✅ Get your FRN from the FCC
- 📝 Register for your exam
- 🎥 Have 2 devices with Zoom + a quiet and clear space
- 🧾 Bring your ID and optionally a blank sheet of paper
- 💳 After passing, pay FCC fee via email link [Don’t Modify that Application]
- 📡 Then? You’re officially on the air
Let’s start off by saying—yes, this looks wordy. But the process itself is simple.
If you’re anything like me, knowing exactly what to expect can take the edge off. So here’s everything laid out step-by-step.
Full Instructions
Step 1 – Get Your FRN
You’ll need a Federal Registration Number (FRN) from the FCC to register for your exam.
- Already have one? Great—skip ahead.
- Need one? Use the link below to register. It’s quick, and you’ll get your number right away.
Important: Your FRN registration must match your legal ID. If your FRN uses a nickname but your ID shows your full name, we may need to pause testing until it’s corrected. Reach out if you need help—we’re happy to assist.
Step 2 – Sign Up for Your Exam
Got your FRN? Awesome!
Click the link below, fill out the form, and we’ll follow up to schedule your test.
- Don’t see a time that works? No worries—we often test outside listed hours.
- Just email us with your preferred day, time, and time zone.
📅 Ham Radio Test Schedule
📧 Email us: exam@waveexam.com
Step 3 – Testing Time
You’ve done the hard part—now it’s easy!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid government-issued ID
- Two devices with Zoom and browser access (computer, tablet, phone)
- A quiet room to yourself, free of study materials
- Optional: blank sheet of paper and built-in calculator (no external calculators)
What to expect:
- We’ll send you a Zoom link before your test
- You may wait briefly in the Zoom waiting room—totally normal
- We’ll introduce ourselves, check your ID, and do a quick room scan
- Don’t worry about clutter—we’re only checking for prohibited items (extra screens, crib notes, etc.)
During the test:
- Need help? Just ask—we’re cheering you on from the background!
- You’ll scroll through a single page of questions
- Click images to enlarge if needed
Step 4 – FCC Payment
You passed—congrats! 🎉
Hold onto your CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Exam).
Next steps:
- Within a few business days, you’ll get an email from the FCC
- Open it on a computer (not mobile)
- Don’t modify Form 605—it can delay your license
- Once you pay the fee, you’ll get your license confirmation the next day
Your CSCE is valid for one full year in case anything needs fixing.
Step 5 – Get On the Air
This is where the fun begins!
Whether you’re jumping into repeaters, HF, or just exploring, we’re excited to welcome you to the airwaves. Enjoy your new shiny license—and don’t be a stranger!