This page is where you should focus first if you’re just starting out, or working towards getting a license.
NOTE: Be aware that different countries have different regulations, requirements and privileges. Keep that in mind when you’re watching videos, taking training, purchasing books, etc.
THE BASIC BASICS
- Everything You Wanted to Know About Ham Radio
- Beginner’s Guide to Ham Radio
- Ham Radio Crash Course
- Electricity Basics
- An Introduction to Antenna Basics
ONLINE COURSES
Many clubs offer hands-on, in-person training. If you don’t have anything locally, there are also online options.
- Radio Amateurs of Canada – Online Courses (Canada)
- CLARES Online Courses (Canada)
BOOKS
Regulations and exam questions will be country-specific, but much of the general information in books will be similar, regardless of the country you’re in.
- COAX Publications (Canada)
- Ham Radio for Dummies
- Ham Study
- ARRL Store (USA)
PRACTICE EXAMS
Taking online practice exams gives you a feel for the kinds of questions you’ll get. It also lets you test your level of knowledge to determine areas that might require more practice. *REMINDER: Make sure you’re using practice exams applicable to the country where you’ll be licensed.*
- Amateur Radio Exam Generator (Canada)
- Hamstudy.org (USA)
- Hamstudy.org – Canada Basic (Canada)
- Hamstudy.org – Canada Advanced (Canada)
SAFETY
GROUNDING
Grounding is a complex subject. Most beginners start with a handheld radio where grounding doesn’t really apply. Mobile radios need to be grounded to the vehicle. Home / base station grounding is significantly more complex.
CLUBS
Joining a club is one of the best ways to learn, especially the hands-on part. You’ll also find “Elmers” (mentors) that are happy to help you learn and answer your questions.
- Calgary Amateur Radio Association (CARA) (AB, Canada)
- Central Alberta Amateur Radio Club (CAARC) (AB, Canada)
- Foothills Amateur Radio Association (FARS) (AB, Canada)
- North Okanagan Radio Amateur Club (BC, Canada)
- Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) (Canada)
- Southern Alberta Radio Association (SARA) (AB, Canada)
- Northern Alberta Radio Club (NARC) (AB, Canada)
NETS
One way to get a feel for what radio “chat” sounds like is to participate in – or just listen to – a NET. (Think of a NET as a virtual “meeting” on a specific frequency at a specific time.)
- RAC List of NETs (Canada)