K8OAR – Ogemaw Arenac Amateur Radio Society

Join Ham Radio

Why Get Your Amateur Radio License?

Amateur (ham) radio is more than a hobby — it’s a public service, a technical pursuit, and a worldwide community. Getting licensed opens the door to hands-on learning, emergency communications, and lifelong friendships.

With a simple FCC license, you can legally transmit on amateur radio frequencies and explore everything from local chat to worldwide contacts.

What Can You Do With Ham Radio?

  • 📡 Talk locally, regionally, or worldwide without the internet
  • 🌪️ Provide emergency communications during storms and disasters
  • 🧠 Learn electronics, radio theory, and digital technology
  • 🏕️ Operate outdoors (Field Day, Parks on the Air, camping)
  • 🌎 Connect with people around the world
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 A great family-friendly and youth activity

You don’t need to be an engineer — many hams start with no technical background at all.

Do I Need a License?

Yes. In the United States, the FCC requires an amateur radio license to transmit. The good news:

  • ✔️ No Morse code is required
  • ✔️ Licenses are affordable
  • ✔️ Exams are multiple-choice
  • ✔️ Help and study resources are widely available

OAARS members are happy to help you study and get licensed.

Amateur Radio License Levels (U.S.)

There are three amateur radio license classes in the United States. Each level builds on the one before it.

🟢 Technician Class (Entry Level)

Best for: Beginners, new hams, youth

What you can do:

  • Operate on VHF & UHF bands (2m, 70cm)
  • Use local repeaters
  • Participate in emergency communications
  • Some limited worldwide HF privileges

Why start here:

  • Most common first license
  • Ideal for local communications
  • Perfect for handheld and mobile radios

🔵 General Class (Intermediate)

Best for: Hams ready to explore long-distance communication

What you can do:

  • Access most HF bands
  • Make contacts across the country and around the world
  • Participate in contests and digital modes

Why upgrade:

  • Dramatically expands your operating privileges
  • Opens global communication opportunities

🟣 Amateur Extra Class (Advanced)

Best for: Experienced operators and technical enthusiasts

What you can do:

  • Full access to all amateur bands and frequencies
  • Use exclusive Extra-only segments
  • Serve as Volunteer Examiners

Why earn Extra:

  • Maximum operating privileges
  • Deeper technical knowledge
  • Leadership and mentoring opportunities

How Hard Is the Test?

  • All exams are multiple choice
  • No trick questions
  • Questions come from a published question pool
  • Many people pass after a few weeks of study

The Technician exam is very approachable, even with no prior radio experience.

How Do I Get Started?

  1. Attend a K8OAR meeting – visitors are always welcome
  2. Study for the Technician exam (we can help)
  3. Take the exam at a local test session
  4. Get on the air and start operating

We’re Here to Help

You don’t have to do this alone.

K8OAR offers:

  • Mentoring (“Elmering”)
  • Study guidance
  • Practice exams
  • Help choosing your first radio

You don’t need a license to attend a meeting — just curiosity.

Ready to Join?

  • 📅 Come to our next meeting
  • 📧 Contact us with questions
  • 📻 Start your journey into amateur radio

K8OAR Amateur Radio Society welcomes new hams of all ages and experience levels.