What’s different during a shutdown?

  • During a U.S. government shutdown, the FCC suspends most of its operations, including processing new amateur radio (ham) license applications, renewals, upgrades, or modifications.

  • However, exam sessions may still proceed via Volunteer Examiners (VEs). VEs are encouraged to continue administering exams and forwarding results to their VECs.

  • Because the FCC’s systems (such as CORES for FRN registration and ULS for license filing) may be offline or restricted, some temporary accommodations are in place to allow progress in the licensing pipeline.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Candidate

Here’s how someone can proceed to become a licensed ham despite the shutdown delays.

1. Study for the exam

  • Choose which class of license you want (Technician, General, or Amateur Extra).

    • Technician is the entry-level license; exam is 35 questions.

    • Higher classes (General, Extra) require passing additional exams.

  • Use study guides, online practice exams, classes, or local clubs to prepare.

2. (If possible) Acquire or register your FRN

Normally, before applying for a license, candidates must register for an FCC Registration Number (FRN) via the CORES system.

  • But during the shutdown, new FRN registrations are not being accepted.

  • The workaround is: during exam registration, indicate “I don’t have an FRN” (or use “0000000000” in systems that require a placeholder) so the exam session can proceed.

3. Find an exam session (in-person or remote)

  • Search for an amateur radio exam session near you via your local ham radio club or via VEC websites (e.g. ARRL VEC’s exam listings).

  • Many VECs support remote (online) or hybrid exam sessions, depending on local rules.

  • Register ahead of time and follow instructions (identification, exam rules, etc.).

4. Take the exam; get a CSCE

  • At the exam, the Volunteer Examiners will administer the test(s). If you pass, you receive a CSCE (Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination).

  • Because the FCC is not processing applications now, you can hold the CSCE until the FCC reopens.

5. After the shutdown: finalize your license

Once the Government Shutdown ends and FCC systems are back online, please follow these steps to ensure your license is granted promptly:

  1. Register for a CORES account at https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do, using your email address as your username.
  2. Verify your account, then log in and obtain your FCC Registration Number (FRN).
    • Be sure to register as an Individual.
    • Enter your personal information exactly as it appears on your photo ID.
    • Once you receive your FRN, save it carefully—this will be your permanent FCC identifier.
  3. Send your Name, Test Date, and new FRN to the ARRL VEC:

When the VEC receives your FRN, they will submit your application to the FCC.

After your application is accepted by the FCC, you will receive an automated email from the FCC with instructions for completing the $35 payment.

Tips & Things to Emphasize

  • Don’t delay taking the exam just because the FCC is shut down. The exam session can still move forward and your results will be “queued” until the FCC comes back online.

  • For candidates without an FRN, be sure to indicate that in the exam paperwork so the session can proceed. Keep good records (your exam date, CSCE, contact with your VEC) so you’re ready when submitting to the FCC.

  • Once the FCC reopens, don’t wait too long — submit your application and fee promptly so your license is processed quickly.