Gateway to the Amateur Radio service

FCC created the VEC system to provide initial licensing examination for prospective new hams and upgrade examination opportunities for those already licensed.  FCC authorized VEC organizations oversee the work of their certified Volunteer Examiners (VEs) and serve as a liaison between the exam applicants and the FCC.

The ARRL's VEC program has a long standing tradition of serving the Amateur Radio community and the FCC with integrity and expertise.  As the largest VEC in the nation, we operate as a knowledgeable information source for a wide-range of licensing issues.

ARRL accredited Volunteer Examiners (VEs) support us around the country by offering exam opportunities in their local community's and helping exam candidates fulfill their Amateur Radio aspirations.

Service and volunteerism are vital parts of our Amateur Radio culture.  VEs give so generously of their time, energy and skill to our community. The ARRL hopes that you will embark on this rewarding journey and become an aril Volunteer Examiner!

Volunteer Examiners (VEs) are US licensed Radio Amateurs holding a General Class license or higher, who offer their time to administer the FCC licensing exams through a FCC authorized Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) organization. The ARRL VEC is the largest VEC organization in the US.  A team of three or more ARRL VEs are able to test candidates applying for a new license or upgrading an existing license.  

Learn how you can become a volunteer examiner (VE) associated with the ARRL VEC program by reviewing the ARRL's Volunteer Examiner Manual.

ARRL also authorizes our VEs to conduct exam sessions for ARRL's Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Course.  An additional registration with ARRL's Continuing Education Program is required. 

To learn more, visit the ARRL at arrl.org.