Dances with Robots

HAM radio

Some of the unsung heroes in a disaster are HAM Radio Operators, and probably CB Operators too. When cell towers are clogged, power is out, and everything is FUBAR, these folks know how to communicate across distances just the same.

I’ve noticed when it comes to licenses and certifications, there is always a money grab. Someone who wants you to pay them for what could be free. In Washington, there is a completely free course to meet the state requirements for gun ownership. I wouldn’t buy from a dealer who doesn’t make sure you know. The one I spoke to had the QR code taped to the counter.

After blowing a shit ton of money becoming a medical coder (story for another time) and losing hours and therefore my job at work, I tend to be thrifty. It sounds like there is a small fee required that can’t be gotten around. That is fair. The place to save is on the course and study materials. I hope this conversation helps navigate that for those who want to be more prepared.

Before I copy/paste the whole thing, I do have some recommendations:

This came across my ‘stack today and this person obviously knows a lot more than I do for this sort of thing:

From Crisis to Connection: Why Radio is the Lifeline You Need to Learn Now

• Unlike guns, you can buy this thing without the license. My naive ass thought it wasn’t legit because they just sent it. Pot is legal here and we can’t order cones. Weird. If an emergency hits before you have yours, use your best judgment. An unlicensed driver is safer than a drunk one, just saying.

• I fucking hate Amazon. If you want this thing fast and cheap, now that Radio Shack doesn’t exist, that’s probably what you are stuck with too. Here is what I bought. I researched the brand and still keep seeing it recommended. There may be better versions. I hate shopping. Whatever I ordered showed up and worked.

• I noted about this, and it’s probably not great for those who already have this sort of communications network training, but I don’t (and I enjoyed reading) this. It’s not a deep dive on the radio itself (YouTube had some great ones) but a lot of good information just the same. With stories. I love stories.

• After reading it, some accessories I chose to buy were this and this. Anything programmable, Imma try. NERD!

• After fucking around trying to enter frequencies directly in the radio (which would be super fun to have to do in some sort of emergency) something I can port out of Excel (which I have a long and intimate relationship with, spreadsheets are my jam) was a no-brainer.

• The Bluetooth thing can make use of your phone camera and other features. Depending on the circumstances this could be invaluable to quickly describe a situation (if there are no tracking considerations).

Here’s what the robot said about the license:

While there isn’t a completely free way to get a HAM radio license in most countries, you can minimize the costs significantly with some resourceful strategies:

1. FCC License Fee:

   • In the U.S., the FCC charges a modest application fee (as of 2025, it's $35 for a 10-year license).

   • This fee is unavoidable if you're applying for a new license.

2. Study Materials:

   • Many organizations, like the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), offer paid study guides, but there are free alternatives:

     • HamStudy.org: Provides free study materials, flashcards, and practice tests.

     • QRZ.com Practice Tests: Free practice exams for Technician, General, and Extra licenses.

     • YouTube channels, like those by Dave Casler or Ham Radio Crash Course, often provide comprehensive and free video guides.

3. Testing Fees:

   • Volunteer Examiner Coordinators (VECs) may charge a small fee (usually $15) for administering the exam, but some groups, like Laurel VEC, offer testing completely free of charge. Check their website for locations and events.

4. Free Community Resources:

   • Local HAM radio clubs often host free study groups, practice sessions, or exam events. They might even cover the testing fee for newcomers. Reach out to clubs in your area to see what they offer.

5. Grants or Scholarships:

   • Some clubs or organizations may sponsor individuals who show a strong interest in amateur radio but can't afford the fees. Inquire about such opportunities.

Although you can’t entirely avoid the FCC licensing fee, using free study resources and finding no-cost exam sessions can help keep your HAM radio licensing journey as affordable as possible.

Me again, I’m going to do this soon and will report back on how painful it was.