Skip to main content

cq@usnara.org (800) 489-6093

New to ham radio? Wiki 501(c)(3) documents

National Amateur Radio Alliance The association for the modern ham

Home

The Alliance

Who we are Mission, vision and the four pillars Board & representatives Officers, territory, regional and state reps Public documents 501(c)(3) determination, bylaws, filings Contact us Email, phone and mailing address

Start here

What is ham radio? A plain-English introduction Get your license The three US license classes, step by step Find an exam session Test locations and what to expect

Keep going

Upgrading your license General and Amateur Extra Just licensed? First radio, first contact, first net Amateur radio wiki Community-maintained reference library

Initiatives

Club Week November 1–8 national club celebration State of Amateur Radio Survey The most in-depth study of the hobby Regional Club Councils Club leaders collaborating by region

Awards & panels

Alfred Vail 20-20 Young Keyers For operators under 20 at 20+ WPM Excellence in Amateur Radio Recognizing outstanding contribution National Presenters Panel Book a speaker for your club

Member login Join NARA

Home / Wiki / Your first radio / History

Page history

Your first radio

Search the wiki

Getting started
Licensing
Operating
The station
Emergency communications
Technical topics
Rules and regulations
Clubs and community
Reference

Help improve this wiki — NARA members with the editor role can update any page.

Sign in to edit

Not a member yet? Join today.

Member sign in

Sign in with your NARA account to edit this page.

Email address

Password

Forgot your password?
Not a member yet? Join today.

No revisions recorded yet.

National Amateur Radio Alliance The association for the modern ham

A central hub of resources, engagement, outreach and advocacy for operators, clubs and communities across the United States.

501(c)(3) nonprofit · Charity ID 39-2868923

Get started

What is ham radio?
Get your license
Find an exam session
Find a club
Amateur radio wiki

Programs

All programs
Club Week
Alfred Vail 20-20
National Presenters Panel
State of Amateur Radio

The Alliance

About NARA
Board & representatives
Public documents
Contact us
Member & board login

© 2026 National Amateur Radio Alliance · 2011 Chapel Ct, Murfreesboro, TN 37128

Terms Privacy Cookies Accessibility