Ham Radio General Class Test 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the agency responsible for assigning and regulating amateur radio licenses in the United States. This is a fundamental function of the FCC, as they oversee all aspects of communications in the country, including the distribution of frequencies and the granting of licenses to amateur radio operators.

The FCC sets the rules and regulations governing amateur radio operations and enforces compliance, ensuring that operators adhere to established standards for communication and usage of frequencies. This authority includes conducting examinations for new licenses, issuing upgrades, and managing the database of licensed amateur operators.

While the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau is a part of the FCC that focuses on commercial wireless and other telecommunications services, it does not specifically handle amateur radio licensing. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a global organization that coordinates international telecom standards and ensures the efficient use of radio frequencies globally, but it does not issue licenses in the U.S. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) manages federal use of the radio spectrum but does not involve itself in amateur radio licensing, which is the purview of the FCC.