How to Become an Amateur Radio Operator

Introduction

The amateur radio service is regulated by the Government of Canada and, in particular Industry, Science and Economic Development (ISED).  The amateur radio service has a global reach and is therefore regulated by the Parliament of Canada through the Radiocommunication Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. R-2) and regulations subordinate to that Act:  the Radiocommunication Regulations (SOR/96-484).  Sections 42 through 49 are of particular interest.

ISED has an informative information page at the following URL:

https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/spectrum-management-telecommunications/en/licences-and-certificates/radio-authorizations/amateur-radio-operator-certification

If one explores that site one quickly will find a collection of Radio Information Circulars:

Additional information is at:

• RIC-2 - Standards for the Operation of Radio Stations in the Amateur Radio Service
  Reclassified as RBR -4, September 2007
• RIC-4 - Technical Requirements Respecting Identification of Radio Stations
  Reclassified as RBR -3, September 2007
• RIC-7 - Basic Qualification Question Bank for Amateur Radio Operator Certificate Examinations
  No longer available as a Radiocom Information Circulars (RIC). Refer to Amateur Radio Operator Certificates : Print All Basic Questions
• RIC-8 - Advanced Qualification Question Bank for Amateur Radio Operator Certificate Examinations
  No longer available as a Radiocom Information Circulars (RIC). Refer to Amateur Radio Operator Certificates : Print All Advanced Questions

Basic Qualification Examination

Essentially, one needs to write the Basic Qualification Examination with a pass mark of 70%.  If one passes with 80% or more, one is allowed to operate on the HF bands.  This can also be achieved by subsequently carrying out the 5 WPM Morse Code examination.  Greater privileges are accorded to the operator if they also pass the Advanced Qualification Examination. 

An ISED accredited examiner will invigilate the examination.  There is a list of such examiners on the ISED website.  The Society has two of these and they do not charge an invigilation fee.  They must be assured however that examination candidates are prepared to write the examination.  Accommodation may be made for disability and for taking the examination in French.  If you pass the examination, the invigilator will assist you with the paperwork for licensing and obtaining your callsign.  Keep in mind that the invigilators are volunteers.

Society

The Yellowknife Amateur Radio Society can assist you in analysis of practice exam questions and coach you on exam-taking strategies.  If writing the exam, keep in mind your goal is to pass the exam.  In terms of exploring the amateur radio service, we can help with that too through mentoring and the sharing of interests and cooperation on projects.