National Institute of Amateur Radio

6-3-1092 /93, Raj Bhavan Road, Somajiguda,
Hyderabad-500082, Telangana, India.

+91 40 2331 0287

+91 40 2331 0787

info@niar.org

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Amateur Radio or HAM Radio?

Amateur (HAM) Radio is both a Hobby activity and Service. It is an activity of self-learning, inter-communication & technical investigation carried on the duly authorized persons (i.e. Amateur Radio Operators) for a personal aim and without pecuniary interest.

2. What does HAM stand for?

The acronym for HAM primarily in use is Hertz Armstrong Marconi named after the famous scientists

3. Who can become a HAM?

Any individual above the age of 12 can become an Amateur Radio operator-no matter what age, gender or physical ability.

4. How to become a HAM?

Individuals interested to become a HAM should have to qualify in Amateur Station Operator Certificate (ASOC) examination conducted by Ministry of Communications, Government of India and obtain license for operating / possessing a Radio Station

5. What is ASOC?

Amateur Station Operators Certificate

6. How many types of licenses are there?

There are two grades of licenses.
Restricted Grade – Permitting use of medium power (1 Hour exam)
General Grade – Permitting use of higher power (2 Hour exam)

7. What is the exam fee?

The exam fee is 100 INR per grade

8. What does the exam syllabus comprise?

The syllabus consists of Basic Electronics and Communication Procedures and the exam is of objective type

9. Are there any exemptions in the exam?

Yes, any individual with Diploma or B.E. / B.Tech in Electronics & Communications are exempted from Section-A (the Basic Electronics section) of the ASOC examination.

10. Who conducts the exam?

The Officer-In-Charge, Wireless Monitoring Station, Dept. of Telecommunication under Ministry of Communication, Govt. of India is the authority for conducting the examination

11. Who issues licenses?

The Amateur Station operator License is issued to any individual who qualifies in the ASOC examination conducted by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) wing of Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, New Delhi

12. What is the period of validity for the license?

An individual may choose to apply for

Life time by paying Rs.2000/- (until the individual becomes 80 years)
Renewable by paying Rs.1000/- (for every 20 years)

13. I am a foreign national, can I get amateur radio license in India?

Yes, The WPC issues reciprocal license for amateur radio operators of foreign nationals. The application form in the prescribed format is available in the Downloads.