Amateur radio licensing is managed by the Federal Communications Commission. Passing a written examination is required, for which tests are given by Volunteer Examiners for a small fee at regular times and locations throughout the year. There is no longer a requirement to learn Morse code to obtain an amateur license. The multiple-choice test is taken from a published question pool, so passing the test is a matter of becoming familiar with this pool of questions and the correct answers. Classes are offered by the Palos Verdes Amateur Radio Club for Technician and General Class license preparation. These classes are held four times per year at Hesse Park and are followed by an exam. The classes are free, and the cost for the exam is $15. There are numerous aids to learning the material for the exam on the Internet. Search the terms “amateur radio license study guide” to find several resources on line.

Generally speaking all NART activity takes place on the 2 meter and the 70 cm wavelengths. These “bands” are referred to as VHF and UHF (very- and ultra-high frequency) regions of the radio spectrum. Many handheld radios are available that cover both these bands and range in price from $125 to $300 or more. NART has standardized on two handheld radios and one mobile (vehicle mounted or stationary home) radio, and your radio can have all the NART frequencies added by a NART member so you don’t have to enter them all manually. For specifics and brand recommendations please email NART at KJO@PVESTATES.ORG.(mailto:KJO@PVESTATES.ORG)

The very best way to become proficient in operating the radio is simply to use it. NART maintains a repeater system that covers PVE from Valmonte to Lower Lunada Bay. Many NART members monitor the repeater frequencies and are ready to answer your call. NART also sponsors “Get to Know Your Radio” training sessions which supplement information found in the training and operations manual. There are tutorials on YouTube for most radios. And finally, there are handy “Nifty Manuals” offered for all popular radios that show at a glance what every button does and what keystrokes are needed to accomplish your desired result.

Once you have your license, complete the Application Form (javascript:void(0))and mail it as described or scan and email it to KJO@PVESTATES.ORG.(mailto:KJO@PVESTATES.ORG) You’ll be contacted about a training class right away.

While NART is specifically oriented to Licensed Amateur Radio operations, the Family Radio Service (FRS) radio system (low power walkie talkies) has proven to be useful in some situations where communications are over a short distance or within a confined geography. These radios do not require a license. Unfortunately, these radios do not cover the entire City of PVE, and NART’s repeater infrastructure cannot use these radios due to their frequencies of operation. Individual DDP containers are equipped with several of these FRS radios for the use of volunteers and DDP personnel. Contact your closest DDP coordinator for information about how you can volunteer.