An Amateur Radio license issued by the FCC is valid for 10 years from the date of grant.
License Term
All U.S. amateur license classes — Technician, General, and Amateur Extra — have the same validity period:
- 10-year license term
- Renewable before expiration
- No retesting required for renewal
The expiration date is listed in the FCC Universal Licensing System (ULS).
Renewing Your License
You may renew your license:
- Up to 90 days before expiration
- Online through the FCC ULS system
- Without taking another exam
If renewed on time, your call sign and privileges remain unchanged.
What Happens If It Expires?
If your license expires:
- You enter a 2-year grace period
- During the grace period, you cannot operate
- You may still renew without retesting
If more than two years pass after expiration:
- The license is canceled
- You must retake and pass the required exams
Your old call sign may no longer be available.
Practical Perspective
To avoid disruption:
- Mark your expiration date
- Renew early within the 90-day window
- Confirm renewal is processed in ULS
Most operators renew online in just a few minutes.