How to become a radio amateur: license, authorizations, regulations
Why become a radio amateur in the age of the internet and digital communications? This is the question every radio enthusiast has been asked at least once in their life.
We try to answer by saying that radio can be considered the first global social network and, to this day, has not lost its primacy. While social networks operate through algorithms, require filters, and are accessed via a screen, radio retains its human and authentic dimension, and most importantly, is not subject to the information saturation typical of digital media.
Radio remains a point of reference for those seeking direct, real, and immediate contact, not only in emergencies or events but also for simple entertainment. Moreover, it benefits from a global community of people who love dialogue, exchanging ideas, and helping each other. In an era where we are all interconnected and where vanity metrics seem to be the only ones that matter, radio proves that true connection is not measured by vanity metrics, but by the power of voice and the bonds created that withstand time and technology.
Thus, a radio amateur is someone who chooses to be part of this community. They are passionate about technology and conduct their activities without profit. Amateur radio activity is internationally classified as a service, so it is regulated and requires adherence to certain regulations. Not everyone can become a radio amateur, and it is not possible to communicate using amateur radio frequencies without first obtaining a license, applying for a call sign, and then receiving general authorization.
Amateur radio regulations may seem complicated, which is why we have created a short guide to help you understand how to become a radio amateur and the steps to follow.
Who is a Radio Amateur?
A radio amateur is someone authorized to transmit on the radio without profit. They must be at least 16 years old to obtain general authorization and must have knowledge of radio technology to pass the license exam.
The knowledge of Morse code, which was once mandatory, is no longer necessary but is a plus for the most experienced and passionate radio amateurs. Radio amateurs are often involved in Civil Protection activities thanks to ordinance 782 of 1985, which mandates that all Italian prefectures, the Ministry of the Interior, and Civil Protection be connected via amateur radio stations to keep communications active in the event of disasters or blackouts.
In summary, a radio amateur is a communications and radio technology enthusiast who obtains the titles and authorizations necessary to communicate on certain frequencies.
How to Become a Radio Amateur?
Amateur radio regulations are managed by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, which updates the procedures for applying for the license exam and general authorization annually.
To become a radio amateur, three things are required:
The license, which allows you to operate from any radio station;
The application for a call sign (amateur radio call sign);
General authorization, which allows you to transmit from your own radio station.
However, before applying to the Ministry for the license, it is necessary to understand the basics of radio technology. Every radio amateur must know how radios function technically and operationally, how communications are conducted, and what their rights and duties are. To do this, you can study textbooks independently or attend courses organized annually by regional ARI. Listening to amateur radio traffic can also be helpful in getting closer to this world, as suggested by the Italian Radio Amateurs Association. Listening to amateur radio frequencies is allowed without needing any authorization.
Amateur Radio License: How to Obtain It?
The amateur radio license is obtained by passing an exam that is currently conducted orally and remotely. The exam covers three main topics (as stated on the Mimit website):
Technical issues;
National and international operating rules and procedures;
National and international regulations for amateur and satellite amateur radio services.
The application for the exam must be submitted electronically, with the appropriate stamps paid.
Some people may request an exemption from the exam for obtaining the license, including those who hold a degree in information engineering, industrial engineering, physical sciences and technologies, navigation sciences and technologies, computer science, mathematics, and other related fields. The Ministry provides a detailed list of all legally recognized exemptions.
How to Obtain a Station Call Sign?
After passing the exam and obtaining the amateur radio operator license, you can request a radio amateur call sign. The call sign consists of letters and numbers, with a national prefix and a suffix.
The request for this call sign is always processed by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy. It must be submitted using the appropriate form, paying the required stamp duty, and attaching the obtained license. Within 30 days of receiving the call sign, you must send a declaration of activity start.
It is important to note that each region has its own territorial inspectorate that regulates the procedures for requesting a call sign, so it is necessary to consult the Ministry’s website for the Inspectorates.
How to Obtain General Authorization?
The final step to becoming a radio amateur is to obtain general authorization for the installation and operation of an amateur radio station, formerly called a “station license.”
General authorization allows you to operate from your own amateur radio station, and this authorization can only be requested by:
Citizens of European Union or European Economic Area countries, or countries with reciprocity agreements, residing in Italy;
Individuals at least 16 years old;
Holders of an amateur radio license;
Individuals without prior criminal convictions or security and preventive measures.
Additionally, authorization can also be requested by universities, scientific and technological research entities, schools, public territorial entities, and formally recognized local sections of radio amateur associations.
Amateur Radio Frequencies
Those engaged in amateur radio activities can communicate on certain frequencies, which are divided into:
Low Frequency;
Medium Frequency;
High Frequency;
Very High Frequency (VHF);
Ultra High Frequency (UHF);
Super High Frequency (SHF);
Extremely High Frequency (EHF).
Each frequency has its own characteristics for proper use, and it is the radio amateur’s responsibility to understand these differences and know which frequencies to use in specific situations.
After fulfilling all the regulatory requirements, all that’s left is to get yourself an amateur radio: discover all our models of radios and join the world of Midland communications!
