Your Ultimate Guide to Getting a Ham Radio Licence in Canada

So, you’re interested in the exciting world of amateur radio? Whether you dream of chatting with astronauts on the International Space Station, providing essential communication during emergencies, or simply connecting with new friends across the country, it all starts with one thing: getting your Amateur Radio Operator Certificate.

Here in Canada, the process is straightforward, and with the right resources, you can go from a complete beginner to a licensed operator faster than you think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the qualifications to acing the exam.

📜 Understanding the Canadian Qualifications

In Canada, your licence is called an Amateur Radio Operator Certificate, and it's regulated by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). There are two key qualifications you'll hear about, but it's all based on one exam:

🟢 Basic Qualification

This is your entry ticket to the world of amateur radio. To get it, you need to score 70% or higher on a 100-question multiple-choice exam.

• What you get: Access to all amateur radio frequencies above 30 MHz. This includes the very popular 2-metre (VHF) and 70-centimetre (UHF) bands, which are perfect for local communication with handheld radios and for using your local repeater systems.

• Perfect for: Talking with local clubs, participating in community events, and getting involved with emergency communications groups like ARES.

🏆 Basic with Honours Qualification

This isn't a separate exam! If you score 80% or higher on the same Basic exam, you automatically earn the "Honours" distinction.

• What you get: All the privileges of the Basic Qualification, PLUS access to all amateur radio frequencies below 30 MHz. These are the High Frequency (HF) bands that allow for reliable, long-distance communication across the country and around the world.

• Perfect for: Making international contacts, participating in global contests, and exploring the thrill of "DXing" (contacting far-away stations).

The best part? No Morse code is required for either qualification!

🚀 Your 4-Step Path to Getting on the Air

Getting licensed is a clear, four-step process. Here’s how you can do it.

Step 1: Study the Right Material

The exam covers regulations, basic electronics theory, and on-air operating procedures. While you can read the official documents, a structured course is the fastest and most effective way to learn. Our 30-Day Canadian Amateur Radio Course is designed to guide you through every topic in manageable daily lessons.

• ✅ Comprehensive: Covers every topic from the official ISED question bank.

• ✅ Structured: A day-by-day plan takes the guesswork out of studying.

• ✅ Mobile-Friendly: Learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.

➡️ Enroll in the HamRadioList Course Today!

Step 2: Master the Material with Practice Exams

Reading is one thing, but testing your knowledge is the key to success. The ISED exam pulls its questions from a public question bank of over 1,000 questions. The best way to prepare is to practice with the real thing.

Our Practice Exams use the official ISED question pool, so you can be confident you're studying the right material. You'll see what you know, identify areas that need more review, and build the confidence you need to pass.

➡️ Take a Free Practice Exam Now!

Step 3: Find a Local Club and Examiner

Exams are administered by ISED-accredited volunteer examiners. The best way to find one is by connecting with a local amateur radio club. These clubs are the heart of the hobby and are filled with experienced operators who are happy to help newcomers. Many now offer both in-person and remote online exams for your convenience.

Use our new interactive tool to find a club in your province.

➡️ Find a Canadian Amateur Radio Club Near You

Step 4: Pass the Exam and Get Your Call Sign!

Once you've studied and feel confident, it's time to take the exam. After you pass, your examiner will submit your application to ISED. In a few weeks, you'll be issued your very own, unique call sign—free for life!

With your call sign in hand, you are officially a licensed amateur radio operator and can get on the air.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Getting your Canadian amateur radio licence is a rewarding adventure that opens up a lifetime of learning and community. With our structured course and powerful practice exams, you have everything you need to succeed.

Click here to enroll in the course and start your journey to getting licensed!