Ham Radio Licensing for Preppers: Complete Beginner Guide

When cell towers fail and the internet goes dark, ham radio operators keep communicating. Amateur radio is one of the most reliable forms of emergency communication available—and getting licensed is easier than you think.

This guide covers everything you need to get your ham radio license and set up reliable emergency communications.

Why Ham Radio for Emergency Preparedness?

Unlike cell phones, ham radio doesn’t depend on infrastructure. When disasters knock out cell towers and power grids, ham operators are often the first to establish communication with the outside world.

Advantages of ham radio:

• Works when cell networks are overloaded or down
• Range from local to worldwide communication
• No monthly fees after initial equipment purchase
• Can communicate with emergency services
• Established volunteer emergency networks (ARES, RACES)
• Can receive NOAA weather alerts and emergency broadcasts

Ham Radio License Classes

The FCC issues three classes of amateur radio licenses, each with increasing privileges:

Technician Class (Entry Level)

The Technician license is where most preppers should start. It’s the entry-level license that grants access to frequencies most useful for local and regional emergency communication.

Requirements:

• Pass a 35-question multiple-choice exam
• 74% passing score (26 correct answers)
• No Morse code required
• No prerequisite licenses

Privileges:

• All amateur frequencies above 30 MHz
• Full access to 2-meter band (most common for local emergency comms)
• Full access to 70-centimeter band
• Limited access to some HF bands (80m, 40m, 15m, 10m)
• Sufficient for most handheld radio use

Best for: Most preppers, local emergency communication, getting started

General Class (Intermediate)

The General license adds significant HF (high frequency) privileges, enabling long-distance communication without relying on repeaters or internet.

Requirements:

• Hold Technician license
• Pass additional 35-question exam
• 74% passing score

Privileges:

• Everything in Technician class
• Access to 83% of all HF bands
• Long-distance (hundreds to thousands of miles) communication
• Better options during widespread disasters

Best for: Serious preppers, those wanting long-range capability, regional communication

Amateur Extra Class (Advanced)

The Extra class provides full access to all amateur frequencies. This is for dedicated hobbyists more than typical preparedness needs.

Requirements:

• Hold General license
• Pass 50-question exam
• 74% passing score

Best for: Dedicated ham enthusiasts, contest operators, those wanting every frequency option

Which License Do You Need?

For most preparedness purposes, the Technician license is sufficient. Here’s why:

Our recommendation: Start with Technician. You can always upgrade later, and the Technician exam content builds foundation for General.

How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Study for the Exam

The Technician exam covers:

• FCC rules and regulations
• Basic radio theory and operation
• Safety and best practices
• Frequency privileges

Free study resources:

• HamStudy.org — Free online practice tests and flashcards
• ARRL — Official study guides and resources
• YouTube — Search “Technician license study guide” for video courses

Paid resources:

• Ham Radio Prep online course (~$30-50)
• ARRL License Manual (~$30)
• Gordon West study guides

Step 2: Find an Exam Session

Exams are administered by Volunteer Examiners (VEs) in your area.

How to find a session:

• ARRL Exam Search
• HamStudy Exam Finder
• Local ham radio clubs (search “[your city] amateur radio club”)

Online exams are also available through some VE teams if no local sessions are convenient.

Step 3: Take the Exam

What to bring:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Your Social Security Number (or FCC Registration Number)
• $15 cash or check for exam fee (varies by VE team)
• Pencil and basic calculator (no phone)

What to expect:

• 35 multiple-choice questions
• About 30-60 minutes to complete
• Results immediately after finishing
• If you pass, you can take the next level exam same day

Step 4: Pay the FCC Fee

After passing, you’ll receive an email from the FCC to pay the $35 application fee through their online portal (CORES). Your license is issued after payment—typically within a few days.

Step 5: Get Your Callsign

Once your license is processed, you’ll receive a unique callsign (like “KD0ABC”). This is your legal identifier when transmitting.

Recommended Ham Radios for Preppers

Once licensed, you’ll need a radio. For emergency preparedness, handheld radios (HTs) are most practical.

Best Budget Option: Baofeng UV-5R

The Baofeng UV-5R is the most popular entry-level ham radio. At under $30, it’s an incredible value for getting started.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Dual-band (VHF/UHF)
• Massive aftermarket support
• Good for learning

Cons:

• Programming can be confusing
• Build quality is basic
• Less refined audio than premium radios

Best for: New licensees wanting to start cheap, learning the hobby

Best Mid-Range: Yaesu FT-65R

The Yaesu FT-65R offers significantly better build quality and performance than budget radios at a reasonable price.

Pros:

• Rugged, reliable construction
• Excellent audio quality
• Simple programming
• IPX5 water resistant
• Strong manufacturer support

Cons:

• More expensive than Baofeng
• Fewer aftermarket accessories

Best for: Preppers wanting reliable performance, long-term use

Best Overall: Yaesu FT-60R

The Yaesu FT-60R is widely considered the best ham radio for preppers. It’s been the go-to recommendation for years due to its balance of features, durability, and reliability.

Pros:

• Military-grade durability
• Excellent receive sensitivity
• EAI (Emergency Automatic ID) feature
• Wideband receive (includes AM aircraft, NOAA)
• Works with AA batteries via optional pack

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Older design (no digital modes)
• Menu system takes learning

Best for: Serious preppers, emergency communication focus, long-term reliability

Quick Comparison

Getting Started Checklist

Ham Radio vs. Other Options

Next Steps After Licensing

1. Program local repeaters — Find frequencies at RepeaterBook.com
2. Make your first contact — Most hams are welcoming to newcomers
3. Join a local club — Find clubs at ARRL Club Search
4. Consider ARES/RACES — Volunteer emergency communication networks
5. Practice regularly — Skills degrade without use
6. Study for General — When ready, expand your privileges

Sources

• FCC Amateur Radio Service — Official FCC licensing information
• ARRL Getting Licensed — American Radio Relay League licensing guide
• HamStudy.org — Free exam study resources
• The Prepared - Best Handheld Ham Radios — Radio reviews and recommendations
• TruePrepper - Best Ham Radios — Prepper-focused radio guide

Related:

• Best Emergency Radios for Bug Out Bags
• Emergency Communication Plan for Families
• Bug Out Bag: Complete Guide