Amateur Radio License

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Overview

The process for attaining an Amateur Radio (HAM) license in The Bahamas is rather unique. Licenses are issued by URCA, the local regulatory body. Unlike the US, UK, or every other CARICOM nation, there is no formal testing process available from the regulatory body. Applicants can apply using this form, however they are expecting you to supply a "Certificate, Diploma, or Degree in Electronics/Engineering".

In most countries there are multiple classes of amateur radio operators, limiting you to specific frequencies and power outputs based on your skillsets. The Bahamas does not have these classifications, you are either an amateur radio operator, or you aren't. In the US these classifications are Technician, General, and Amateur Extra. We strongly suggest that you test up to the General level, as this will provide you with all the information you need to operate on most any band.

The most streamlined way to fulfill this requirement is to leverage the testing infrastructure set up by the ARRL in the US. The ARRL works with the FCC on amateur radio rules, regulation, and testing. The FCC does not conduct their own testing for amateur radio operators, instead delegating this task to the ARRL. ARRL designates groups authorized to administer tests as VECs (Volunteer Examiner Coordinator). These VECs are then made up of individual VEs (Volunteer Examiners) who directly administer the tests. These were formerly held as in-person sessions, but are now largely administered online.

Upon successful completion of a test with an ARRL VEC, you will be issued a CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination) document. This is the same document that is accepted by the FCC as proof that you now qualify for a license. This can be submitted to URCA along with payment, and they will issue you a license.

Exam Prep

By far the best way to study and get ready for the exam is to use the tools at https://hamstudy.org/. Start off with Study Mode, and when you feel that you are getting most of the questions right, try a practice test. If you are able to consistently score 80% or above, you are ready to take the test. 75% is a passing score. A week of study should be sufficient to prepare for each exam.

Testing

When you are ready to sit your exam, you can book a session online with a VEC via this link. Timeslots are typically available same day, or book a week or two in advance if you'd rather set yourself a deadline. There is a small fee collected by the VEC to cover their costs, this ranges from about $5 - $15 per test, and most will accept a credit card via PayPal. There are some that only accept Venmo or Zelle, so you may need to shop around and find one you are able to pay.

The tests are administered via Zoom, you will be required to have your webcam turned on, and the examiners will ask you to pan your camera around the room to confirm you don't have the answers written on the wall, ceiling, on a TV screen, or on a notepad in your lap. You will also have to move your cell phone out of reach, and take off your smartwatch and headphones. They will also need you to share your laptop screen to make sure you don't have a document open with all of the answers. Some of the questions require solving math problems. Keeping your computer's calculator open during the test is fine, but they will make sure the memory is cleared.

You can take each individual exam module (Technician, General, Amateur Extra) individually, or choose to take multiple test during the same session. Depending on the VEC, they may allow you to take two for the price of one, if you do both back to back.

After successfully passing the test, the VEC group will issue you a PDF document showing that you have passed the test. A pass is a pass, your score is not shown on the certificate. If you do not pass, you can immediately reschedule, but you will be charged for every test session, whether you pass or fail.

You will require an FCC FRN number, this is a unique identifier issued by them to track your progress throughout your testing. As of writing this, the FCC is not operational due to the US Government shutdown, and it is not possible to apply for an FRN, and the VECs are waiving the requirement. If/when the US gov opens back up, they will require you to enter one before registering. This is a completely free process. You will only be required to pay the FCC a $35 fee if you choose to also apply for a US based license based on your test completion. If you have no need for a US based license, you can skip this step, and only submit to URCA. This process is used by a number of other countries, including Singapore and Malawi. The FCC is not going to chase you down for the $35. They are used to foreign persons only applying for the FRN to take an exam, and not completing the process.

Local Licensing

With this document in-hand, you can submit to URCA along with a $35 application fee, using the form linked above. The process should take about two weeks, but can take up to a month. When approved, you will receive an email from them with a PDF document confirming that you are now licensed. This is an annual license, and will need to be renewed every year for an additional $35

Getting on the air

You've passed your tests and received your license, now what? Reach out to The Bahamas Amateur Radio Society via FacebookEmail, or via their WhatsApp Group.