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AhaBulb: Stuff Everyone Should Know · ahabulb.com/ham-license-term-10-years

What is the normal term of an FCC amateur radio license?

Ten years, then you renew.

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  1. Five years
  2. Life
  3. Ten years ✔

Why: An amateur license is normally granted for 10 years. You can renew it again and again without retesting.

Huh, didn't know that: Your license must show an email address where the FCC can reach you, or it can be revoked or suspended.

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My ham license lasts ten years. My goldfish should be so lucky.
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References

Answer: Ten years. An amateur license is normally granted for 10 years. You can renew it again and again without retesting.

  1. 47 CFR 97.25 License term www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-A/section-97.25
    An amateur service license is normally granted for a 10-year term.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. 47 CFR 97.23 Mailing and email addresses www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-A/section-97.23
    Each license grant must show the grantee's correct name, mailing address, and email address.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  3. 47 CFR 97.23 Consequence of an undeliverable email www.ecfr.gov/current/title-47/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-97/subpart-A/section-97.23
    suspension of the operator license may result when correspondence from the FCC is returned as undeliverable because the grantee failed to provide the correct email address.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Ham RadioHow long before it expires can you ask to renew your amateur radio license?Ham RadioWhat is the grace period for renewing an amateur license after it expires?Ham RadioWhich agency makes and enforces the rules for amateur radio in the United States?

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