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Training & Licensing
Training & Licensing
Curious about getting on the air? Every radio amateur starts somewhere. Here's a friendly guide to the UK's three amateur radio licence levels, some helpful places to study, and how GARS can get you there — including our very own Guernsey examination centre.
Amateur radio (or “ham radio”) is a licensed hobby that lets you legally transmit over the airwaves — from chatting across town on a handheld radio to bouncing signals off the ionosphere to talk to the other side of the world. To do so, you'll need a licence, and in the UK & Guernsey that's arranged through a friendly, three-tier training and assessment scheme.
You don't need any prior knowledge, technical background, or equipment to get started — just curiosity. Most newcomers begin at Foundation level and progress from there, and GARS members are always happy to help you along the way, whichever stage you're at.
Foundation Licence
Your first step onto the airwaves
- No prior knowledge or experience needed — ideal for complete beginners
- A short, friendly course covering safety, basic theory and operating practice
- Straightforward multiple-choice exam plus a simple hands-on assessment
- Grants your first callsign and access to HF, VHF and UHF bands
- Most candidates are exam-ready after a weekend course or a few evenings' study
Intermediate Licence
Build your knowledge, build your station
- The natural next step once you're licensed and ready to learn more
- Deeper technical theory, plus a hands-on construction or practical project
- Increased power limits and extended operating privileges over Foundation
- Popular with members building their own antennas, kits and equipment
Full Licence
The complete amateur radio qualification
- The UK's highest amateur radio qualification
- Comprehensive exam covering advanced theory, safety and regulations
- Unlocks maximum permitted power and the full range of bands and modes
- Opens the door to DXing, contesting, satellites and every corner of the hobby
Exact syllabus content, power limits and current fees are set by the RSGB and Ofcom and can change — our training team can talk you through the latest requirements for each level.
Sit Your Exam Without Leaving the Island
GARS is proud to host Guernsey's dedicated Amateur Radio examination centre, operated locally on behalf of the RSGB. Whether you're sitting your Foundation, Intermediate or Full licence exam, candidates can take their assessment right here in Guernsey. Our training team can talk you through the syllabus, point you towards study resources, and help arrange your exam sitting.
Hands-On Learning, Every Step of the Way
From your first practical assessment to your first DX contact, GARS members are on hand with real equipment, honest advice, and plenty of encouragement.
Friendly, Experienced Mentors
Our members include experienced operators and trainers who are always happy to answer questions, however basic they might seem.
Exam Locally, No Travel
As Guernsey's dedicated RSGB exam centre, there's no need to book travel off-island just to sit your licence assessment.
Hands-On Equipment
Try real radios, antennas and operating practice at our WWII bunker clubroom at Beau Sejour — theory made real.
Support That Continues
Getting licensed is just the beginning — members remain on hand for advice long after you've passed your exam.
RSGB Training & Exams
The official syllabus, course finder, and everything you need to know about sitting your exam.
Essex Ham
Free, popular Foundation course notes and videos used by newcomers right across the UK.
Ofcom
The UK's telecoms regulator — official amateur radio licence terms and conditions.
GARS Friday Meetings
Come along to Beau Sejour on a Friday evening — meet the team and get hands-on help with your studies.
Contact GARS
Questions about training, courses, or booking your exam? Get in touch — we're here to help.