Amateur Radio License Renewal Information
Maintaining your FCC license is essential to staying legally active on the airwaves. While you may receive third-party mailings or emails offering to renew your license for an extra service fee, you can easily handle the process yourself.
⚠️ Important FCC Fee Notice: While the process used to be free, the FCC implemented a mandatory $35.00 application fee for amateur license renewals, new licenses, and vanity callsign requests. This fee is paid directly to the FCC via their online portal.
When to Renew
- The 90-Day Window: You cannot apply for a renewal until 90 days or less before your current license expiration date.
- The Grace Period: If your license expires, you have a 2-year grace period to renew and reclaim your callsign without retaking your element exams. You cannot transmit if your license has expired and has not yet been renewed.
How to Renew
Method 1: Online Filing Via FCC ULS (Fastest & Preferred)
Filing online through the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS) processes your renewal almost instantly.
- Navigate directly to the FCC ULS Online Filing Portal .
- Log in using your FCC Registration Number (FRN) and password.
- Click “Renew Licenses” on your left-hand dashboard and follow the prompts.
- Once submitted, the system will direct you to the FCC Fee Portal to process your $35.00 payment.
Need help logging in? Review the official FCC Application Checklist & Help Guide to gather your details.
Method 2: Paper Filing (Via ARRL VEC or Direct Mail)
If you prefer using physical paper forms, you can utilize the standard NCVEC Quick Form 605.
For ARRL Members: Download and complete the NCVEC Quick Form 605 (PDF) . You can bring this completed form to any local BSARC VE Testing Session, or mail it directly to the ARRL VEC headquarters at:
ARRL VEC 225 Main Street Newington, CT 06111 USA
For Non-ARRL Members: You can submit a paper application directly to the FCC processing center. Mail your completed Form 605 to:
FCC 1270 Fairfield Road Gettysburg, PA 17325-7245