Rules & Regulations
Neutral, factual info on band plans, licensing classes, and operating within the rules.
Amateur radio is licensed spectrum with clear rules. In the US they live in Part 97 of the FCC rules: who may transmit, on which frequencies and modes, with how much power, and how stations must identify. Knowing the rules keeps you legal and makes you a better neighbour on crowded bands.
Privileges depend on licence class, so moving from Technician to General to Amateur Extra steadily opens more of the HF spectrum. Operating abroad adds another layer — reciprocal agreements and CEPT arrangements decide what you may do with your home licence in another country.
The guides below cover the rules every operator should know, how to study for and pass each exam, and how to operate legally when you travel.
Start here
- FCC Ham Radio Rules You Need to Know: Part 97 Basics
- Ham Radio License Classes Explained: Technician vs General vs Extra
- How to Get Your Ham Radio License: Complete Beginner's Guide
- How to Study for the Ham Radio General Exam (And Pass First Try)
- International Ham Radio Operating: Rules for DXing Abroad and Foreign Licenses