Indiana License Exam Sessions

Amateur-radio license exams in Indiana are administered by volunteer hams called Volunteer Examiners (VEs). You do not test at the FCC or a government office — instead, teams of VEs run exam sessions at clubs, libraries, hamfests, and increasingly online over video. Pass the exam, and your new (or upgraded) call sign is granted by the FCC, usually within a few business days.

The three license classes

There are three U.S. amateur-radio license classes, each unlocking more operating privileges:

  • Technician — the entry-level license. Covers VHF/UHF repeaters, local and FM operating, plus some HF privileges. No Morse code is required (Morse code has not been required for any U.S. license since 2007). 35-question exam.
  • General — adds access to most of the HF bands for worldwide contacts. 35-question exam.
  • Amateur Extra — grants all amateur frequency privileges. 50-question exam.

You can attempt all three exams at a single session for one fee, working your way up as far as you pass.

Find a session near you

Specific dates and locations change constantly, so use these live finders rather than a static list. Filter to Indiana to see what is scheduled:

Free and online exam options

Several VECs (Volunteer Examiner Coordinators) administer exams at no charge or at reduced cost, and many now offer fully online sessions over video:

  • Laurel VEC — administers exams for free (no exam fee) for all license classes, and is known for fast FCC processing.
  • GLAARG (Greater Los Angeles Amateur Radio Group) — low-cost online and in-person sessions, with fees waived for minors, students, active military, and veterans.
  • Online video exams let you test from home with a webcam — handy if no nearby in-person session fits your schedule.

What to bring and what to expect

  • An FRN (FCC Registration Number). Register for free with the FCC through CORESbefore your exam — the FCC no longer accepts Social Security numbers, and you will need the FRN to be licensed.
  • A photo ID (for minors without one, check with the VE team about acceptable alternatives).
  • The exam fee. The current ARRL-VEC session fee is modest — see the ARRL exam page for the exact amount, since fees vary by VEC (some, like Laurel VEC, are free). Note: the FCC also charges a separate $35 application fee for new and upgraded licenses, paid directly to the FCC.
  • A basic calculator is allowed (with memory cleared). Pencils and scratch paper are typically provided.
  • The exam: 35 multiple-choice questions for Technician and General, 50 for Amateur Extra. You need 74% to pass (26 of 35, or 37 of 50).

Study resources

Indiana clubs run sessions too

Many Indiana amateur-radio clubs host their own exam sessions, often alongside licensing classes. Browse the clubs directory to find a club near you and ask about upcoming test dates.