Rochester Amateur Radio Association, Inc.
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Since 1931
Rochester Hamfest

 
 
 

  

Amateur Radio Licensing Courses

In case of emergency...
make Amateur Radio part of your plan! 

Get Your Technician License or Upgrade with RaRa

Whether you're new to Amateur Radio or ready to upgrade your license class, RaRa is here to help you every step of the way. From licensing classes to monthly testing sessions, we've got the resources and support you need to succeed. 

FCC License Classes & Question Pools

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers three license classes: TechnicianGeneral, and Amateur Extra. Each class has its own set of exam questions that are updated on a rotating schedule:

Technician – Valid from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2026

General – Valid from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2027

Amateur Extra – Valid from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028

???? Tip: Licensing classes and testing sessions are free for current RaRa members! If you’re not yet a member, join here and start enjoying the perks.

Licensing Classes

Curious about getting licensed or upgrading to the next license class—but not sure you can pass the exam on your own? We've got you covered!

???? Our regularly scheduled classes have wrapped up for the season and will return in September.

In the meantime, if you're eager to get started or prefer to study independently, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help point you in the right direction:

???? education@rochesterham.org

All RaRa classes are conducted online via Zoom, so you can join in from anywhere with an internet connection.

???? We use the current editions of the ARRL License Manuals in all of our classes. As a bonus, RaRa members can purchase these manuals at a discounted rate of $25 (retail price is $43 after shipping) — a great value as you prepare for your exam!

Testing Sessions

???? All regularly scheduled testing sessions have concluded for the season.

RaRa conducts Amateur Radio license testing on the 3rd Saturday of each month from September through April. Testing is free for RaRa members, and open to non-members as well.

???? Please note: While there is no charge at the testing session itself, the FCC does require a $35 application fee for new licenses. This fee is paid directly to the FCC after passing your exam and is not collected during the test.

???? There will also be a special testing opportunity at the 2025 Rochester Hamfest—a great chance to combine testing with one of the area's biggest ham radio events! For more details about the Hamfest, visit rochesterham.org/hamfest.htm.

For additional information about RaRa’s testing program, visit our License Testing page.

Last revised: 05/03/25 10:12 AM


The Rochester Amateur Radio Association, Inc. is a 501(c)3 Educational Corporation
Information Contact: webmaster@rochesterham.org