So You Want To Get Licensed?
If you are interested in receiving a Certificate of Proficiency in Amateur Radio, the first recommendation is to join Border City Radio Club. Membership fees are very reasonable and you’ll find many very helpful and experienced amateur radio operators willing to share their enthusiasm for the hobby while helping you to achieve your goal. We will provide you with practical learning at regular club meetings along with all the support and encouragement you need to successfully pass the exam. Depending on the number of interested participants, it is possible that BCRC may hold their own in person classes. However, if this isn’t a viable option, do not worry as classes are also available on-line via Zoom. A third option is self-guided study, where you purchase the study book and complete the lessons at your own pace. BCRC has members who have received their licenses through all three of the above mentioned methods. BCRC also has Accredited Examiners available. The AEs will provide testing and immediate results. Upon successful completion, they will also file the proper paperwork on your behalf. Licenses for amateur radio operators are issued by the federal government of Canada, specifically “Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada” or ISED. Licenses are free. There may be a nominal fee for classes and examinations.
License Levels
To qualify for a Certificate of Proficiency in Amateur Radio, you must have a valid Canadian address and pass the Basic exam. There are no age restrictions.
There are 4 levels of certification in Canada.
1. Basic Radio License – Pass the basic exam with a mark between 70% and 80%. This gets you your call sign and gives you VHF and UHF rights. (Line of sight communications)
2. Basic with Honors – Pass the basic exam with a mark of 80% or higher. This gives HF rights with a maximum output power of 560 watts PEP. (Around the world communications)
3. Advanced License – Pass the advanced exam with a mark of 70% or higher. This gets you all privileges with a maximum output power of 1000 watts DC input to the final stage of the transmitter. There are other privileges associated with the advanced license as well. Please note that you need to have a Basic License before you can get your Advanced License.
4. CW (Continuous Wave) or Morse Code. Although CW is technically not a level of licensing, you can get CW certification by writing the exam, once you have your call sign.
The Basic Exam is a multiple choice test consisting of 100 questions randomly selected by computer. The Advanced Exam is also a multiple choice test consisting of 50 questions randomly selected.
You can find both Basic and Advanced practice exams and other useful information here:
If you are interested in having more information about courses, self-guided learning, or if you’re ready to make an appointment to write the exam, please contact BCRC by completing the form below.
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