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Upgrading to an Extra License

LEVEL 3: Extra Class License

  • Exam Requirement: 50-question Extra written exam (Element 4).
  • License Privileges: All Amateur band privileges. 

General or Advanced licensees may upgrade to Extra Class by passing a 50-question multiple-choice examination. No Morse code test is required. In addition to some of the more obscure regulations, the test covers specialized operating practices, advanced electronics theory and radio equipment design. Non-licensed individuals must pass Element 2, Element 3 and Element 4 written exams to earn an Extra License. The FCC grants exam element 3 credit to individuals that previously held certain older types of licenses. Find valid forms of Examination Element Credit.

The HF bands can be awfully crowded, particularly at the top of the solar cycle. Once one earns HF privileges, one may quickly yearn for more room. The Extra Class license is the answer. Extra Class licensees are authorized to operate on all frequencies allocated to the Amateur Service.

ARRL Extra Class License Manual

All You Need To Pass Your Extra Class Exam!

  • Pass the 50-question Extra Class test
  • All the Exam Questions with Answer Key
  • Practice for your exam with ARRL's online Exam Review for Ham Radio
  • Detailed explanations for all questions, including FCC rules2016_ECLM_Cover_11th_Edition_3D.jpg
  • Online supplement with additional reference links for more information

The ARRL Extra Class License Manual will prepare you for the FCC license exam:

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Extra Class License Resources

  • Study for the Extra License

    Find resources to help you prepare to upgrade to an extra class license. Learn More

  • Extra Class Question Pool

    Check out how you can obtain a copy of the extra class question pool. Learn More

  • Find a Class

    ARRL can help you find an Amateur Licensing Class closest to you Learn More

  • Find a Test Location

    Find an in-person ham radio exam location in your area or schedule an online exam. Online and in-person tests are given regularly. Learn More

  • Become a Volunteer Examiner

    Serve the Amateur Radio community by administering in-person or online exam sessions. Learn More

  • Public Service

    Use Your License to Serve the Community. Learn More

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