Amateur Radio License Examinations
The Rome Radio Club proudly sponsors Amateur Radio license examination sessions administered by accredited ARRL Volunteer Examiners (VEs).
Whether you are earning your first amateur radio license, upgrading to General Class, or pursuing Amateur Extra, our VE Team is here to help.
New to Amateur Radio?
Getting started is easy:
- Obtain an FCC Registration Number (FRN)
- Study for your license exam
- Register for an upcoming exam session through ExamTools
Registration for all exam sessions is handled through ExamTools.
Questions about testing? Contact the VE Team at ve@romeradioclub.com.
Walk-ins are welcome when seating and examiner availability permit, but pre-registration through ExamTools is strongly encouraged.
There is currently no fee charged by the Rome Radio Club for amateur radio examinations.
Upcoming Exam Sessions
Upcoming examination sessions are listed below.
- VE Session on July 1, 2026 7:00 pm
- VE Session on August 5, 2026 7:00 pm
- VE Session on September 2, 2026 7:00 pm
Pre-registration through ExamTools is strongly encouraged and helps our Volunteer Examiner team prepare for each session.
Before You Register
Obtain an FCC Registration Number (FRN)
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires all amateur radio license applicants to have a Federal Registration Number (FRN) before taking an examination.
If you do not already have an FRN, you may obtain one free of charge through the FCC CORES system.
You will need your FRN when registering for your exam session and when completing your FCC application.
Exam Location
Griffiss Institute
592 Hangar Road
Rome, NY 13441
Unless otherwise noted, all Rome Radio Club examination sessions are conducted at the Griffiss Institute.
Please arrive approximately 15 minutes before your scheduled exam time to allow for check-in and document verification.
What to Bring
Please bring the following items with you:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Your FCC Registration Number (FRN)
- A copy of your current amateur radio license (if upgrading)
- Exam Fee ($15)
- Any valid Certificates of Successful Completion of Examination (CSCEs)
- A calculator if desired (all memory and stored formulas must be cleared before the examination)
Candidates under the age of 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
License Classes
Technician Class
The Technician license is the entry-level amateur radio license and provides access to local VHF and UHF communications along with limited HF privileges.
General Class
The General license expands operating privileges and provides access to most amateur HF bands for worldwide communications.
Amateur Extra Class
The Amateur Extra license is the highest class of amateur radio license available in the United States and grants full amateur radio operating privileges.
Exam Day
- Register through ExamTools.
- Arrive approximately 15 minutes before your scheduled exam time.
- Check in with the Volunteer Examiner team.
- Complete your examination.
- Receive your results before leaving the session.
Candidates may be permitted to attempt additional examination elements during the same session if time and examiner availability permit. Administration of additional exam elements remains at the discretion of the VE Team.
For example, a candidate who passes the Technician examination may be permitted to immediately attempt the General examination.
After You Pass
Successful examination results are submitted electronically through the ARRL Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) system.
After processing by the ARRL VEC, your application will be forwarded to the FCC for final action.
Most applicants receive their new license grant or upgrade within a few business days, although processing times may vary.
The FCC will communicate directly with applicants regarding application status and any required fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a testing fee?
The Rome Radio Club charges the ARRL filing fee if $15. There are additional fees the the individual must pay to the FCC.
Do I need an FRN?
Yes. All applicants must obtain an FCC Registration Number (FRN) before taking an amateur radio examination.
Can I take more than one exam?
Candidates may be permitted to attempt additional examination elements if time and examiner availability permit.
Can I use a calculator?
Yes. Programmable calculators are permitted provided all memories, formulas, and stored information are cleared before testing begins.
What if I already hold an amateur radio license?
Please bring a copy of your current amateur radio license and any applicable CSCEs.
Do I need to register in advance?
Pre-registration through ExamTools is strongly encouraged.
Are walk-ins allowed?
Yes. Walk-in candidates are welcome when seating and Volunteer Examiner availability permit. However, pre-registration through ExamTools is strongly encouraged.
Study Resources
The following resources are excellent preparation tools for amateur radio examinations:
- HamStudy.org
- ARRL License Manuals
- QRZ Practice Tests
- ARRL Exam Review Resources
About the Rome Radio Club
The Rome Radio Club has a long and proud history of supporting amateur radio in Central New York.
In addition to sponsoring amateur radio examinations, the club promotes amateur radio education, public service, emergency communications, technical experimentation, and fellowship among amateur radio operators.
We welcome prospective amateurs and experienced operators alike.
To learn more about the club, visit our main club pages or attend one of our monthly meetings.
Questions?
If you have questions regarding amateur radio examinations, licensing requirements, ExamTools registration, or upcoming examination sessions, please contact the Rome Radio Club Volunteer Examiner Team:
Email: ve@romeradioclub.com
For general club information, meetings, membership, or other club-related inquiries, please contact:
Email: info@romeradioclub.com
We look forward to helping you begin or advance your amateur radio journ