CQ CQ CQ — calling all operators

Welcome to NY HAM

An online community serving amateur radio enthusiasts in New York and beyond.

Stylized map of New York State

Fast and Easy Amateur Radio Testing

The ALLNY VE team is honored to be a part of your journey into amateur radio!

1 Register

Pick the exam session that works best for you, register, and pay the exam fee.

Remember: have your FCC FRN handy — register an FRN if you don't have one.

2 Study

Study and prepare for your exam. Once you are consistently scoring 80–85% you are ready to go!

HamStudy.org is a great resource for practice tests and exam review.

3 Pass Your Exam

On exam day you'll receive a Zoom link. You'll need a device with a webcam (i.e. computer or tablet) to take the exam on, and a second device (i.e. smartphone). Don't forget some form of ID!

Exam Day Info — what to expect and how to prepare

Applicant Identification

  • At the start of the online exam session, a valid photo ID must be shown to the VE team. Valid ID types include: driver's licenses, passports, or other government-issued ID.
  • If an applicant is under the age of 13, a completed COPPA form is required. Download and complete it, then email it to coppa@examtools.org AND ny.ham.team@gmail.com.

Prepare Your Exam Room

The VE Team's goal is to guide you smoothly through the exam process. The integrity of the exam environment and your ability to take the exam uninterrupted is essential.

During the exam:

  1. No other people are allowed in the exam room. Inform other family members or roommates to avoid entering the room during your exam.
  2. Clear your room of all non-exam materials, notes, books, posters, or items that might aid in testing.
  3. Clear your exam table and floor of ALL items within reach or view that would raise suspicions, such as papers, sticky notes, electronic items, headphones, or other items unnecessary for your exam.
  4. Remove any wearable technology, such as smart glasses, smart watches, earbuds, etc.
  5. Additional computer screens and TVs in your field of vision need to be covered.

Prepare Your Computer

The VE Team must ensure the integrity of the test delivery system. Be sure your computer can handle these parameters.

  1. You'll need a computer with a webcam, microphone, and speakers. Occasionally, an additional device may be needed if technology issues prevent your computer from being used.
  2. You'll also need a cell phone (or other camera-enabled device) to link to the same Zoom meeting. This device will be used to scan your test environment, then placed nearby to observe you and your keyboard during the exam. Note: only video is required for this device — do NOT join audio with this device.
  3. Terminate/close non-essential applications. During the exam ONLY Zoom, a web browser, and a calculator can be running.
  4. Your computer must be connected to reliable internet service. Avoid attempting an exam in a room with weak Wi-Fi. An interrupted internet connection can void your exam session.
  5. Headsets, earbuds, headphones, smart watches, smart eyewear, and physical calculators are not allowed.
  6. Verify all devices used during testing have enough battery power and are plugged in or fully charged.
  7. No virtual backgrounds may be applied to your Zoom video feed.
  8. To expedite your session, download and test-run Zoom on your computer and phone well in advance of your test session. You will receive your Zoom meeting invitation by email just prior to your exam. Watch for your email invitation minutes before your test!

Note: the exam session may be terminated for non-compliance with instructions.