Preregistration is now REQUIRED
We will now require pre-registration for exam sessions so we can prepare your exam paperwork and ensure we have enough Volunteer Examiners to administer your exam.
Available exam sessions are in the drop-down during registration.
The taking of more than one exam per session is at our discretion if time permits.
We encourage everyone to attend our club meetings which often have informative presentations, as well as experienced licensed operators to answer your questions. Our meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.
To register, please use the form below to register. Please register no latter that 24 hours prior to your selected exam.
Volunteer Examiners
Examinations are administered by ARRL-VEC certified volunteer examiners under the supervision and guidance of Louis Ciotti, K2LRV. VE test sessions are open to the public and walk ins are welcome. If you have an existing amateur license and/or any CSCE’s (certificates of successful completion of examination), then please bring those with you to the exam session. Exams are held at the Griffiss Institute located at 592 Hangar Rd, Rome NY, on the second Wednesday of every month at 19:00 local time (7:00PM). Each session is listed on the ARRL’s online test site locator for your convenience. GOOD LUCK!
First-Time Exam Applicants Must Obtain FCC Registration Number before Taking Exam
Beginning May 20, 2021, all amateur examination applicants will be required to provide an FCC Registration Number (FRN) to the Volunteer Examiners (VEs) before taking an amateur exam. This is necessary due to changes the FCC has made to its licensing system.
Amateur candidates who already have an FCC license, whether for amateur radio or in another service, already have an FRN and can use the same number. All prospective new FCC licensees, however, will be required to obtain an FRN before the examination and provide that number to the volunteer examiners on the Form 605 license application. An FCC instructional video provides step-by-step instructions on how to obtain an FRN through the FCC’s COmmission REgistration System (CORES).
The FRN is required for all new applicants to take an amateur exam and is used afterward by the applicant to download the license document from the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS), upgrade the license, apply for a vanity call sign, and to submit administrative updates (such as address and email changes) and renewal applications.
In addition, after June 29, all applications will be required to contain an email address for FCC correspondence. Applicants will receive an email direct from the FCC with a link to the official electronic copy of their license whenever a license is issued or changed. ARRL VEC suggests that those without access to email to use the email address of a family member or friend. Licensees will be able to log in to the ULS using their FRN and password to download the latest version of their license at any time. The FCC no longer provides paper license documents.
Exam Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Do I need to schedule an exam in advance?
A: Yes. While walk-ins are welcome at our exam sessions we are asking that you pre-register using the above form at least 24-hours in advance.
Q: What do I need to bring with me on exam day?
A: There are a number of items that you want to bring on exam day. A checklist is provided below:
- A government issued photo ID (unexpired drivers license or passport).
- FCC-issued FRN number
- If you are upgrading or are an expired ham within the two year grace period, bring your original and a photocopy (or reference copy) of your amateur radio license and any certificates of successful completion of examination (CSCE) that you have previously earned.
- A calculator (with a cleared memory) is also allowed. If you will need it, bring it.
- Your exam fee (currently $15).
Q: What if I do not have a government issued photo ID, can I still take the exam?
A: Yes, as long as you fulfill the requirements of ID in another way. For example, if you do not have a drivers license or passport, you may present two other forms of ID, like a social security card, a birth certificate (with the seal on it, not a photocopy), a utility bill or bank statement with your name and current address on it. And students may use a valid school ID, minor’s work permit or a report card. If underage, a legal guardian may present a photo ID for the child.
Q: What exams are available to take through the Rome Radio Club VE Team?
A: All current examinations are provided (Technician, General, Extra).
If you are interested in taking an exam and have questions please contact our VE team at ve@romeradioclub.com.