One of the many services OTVARC provides to the community is free amateur radio classes. We are here to help you earn your first license or upgrade to a new license class.
Circuits Class
This class is not a prerequisite for taking any of the license exams but may be helpful for those who are unfamiliar with electrical circuits. This is a stand-alone class.
Next upcoming class: Sometime Sept-Oct, just before technician class.
Location: Cedar Hills Baptist Church – 2470 SW Roxbury Ave, Portland, OR
Register Here: https://otvarc.org/register-for-classes/
Technician License
The first license for most amateur radio operators is the Technician License. While it primarily allows regional communication, the license does provide limited access to some of the HF bands for long-distance operating.
- Limited HF privileges
- Full operating privileges above 30 MHz
- 35-question multiple-choice test
Next upcoming class: Sometime Sept-Oct
Location: Cedar Hills Baptist Church – 2470 SW Roxbury Ave, Portland, OR
Register Here: https://otvarc.org/register-for-classes/
General License
The General License broadens the opportunity for international communications. With this license, an amateur operator gains access to over 80% of the HF bands for international communications.
- Access to portions of all amateur bands
- 35-question multiple-choice test
There is no charge for the classes. A study book must be purchased (about $25) and the FCC License exam fee is $15.00 with exam venue location assistance offered at the end of your last General License Session.
Next upcoming class: TBD
Amateur Extra License
With an Amateur Extra License, an amateur radio operator has full access to the available HF bands.
- All privileges on all US amateur bands
- 50-question multiple-choice theory test
- Able to apply to be a volunteer examiner
Next upcoming class: TBD
Please direct interest in classes to classes@otvarc.org or any member of the board.
There are other groups and clubs that offer license classes and exams. These groups may or not be affiliated with OTVARC. Some places to take a class:
Scott, N7JI – free technician classes held over Zoom. Email ars.n7ji at gmail dot com
Other classes can be found on the ARRL website – http://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-class