The FCC does not administer amateur exams. Accredited volunteers do, under a Volunteer Examiner Coordinator (VEC) such as ARRL, W5YI or the GLAARG.
Requirements to be a VE
- Hold a General, Advanced or Extra class license (General and Advanced VEs may only test for
- Be at least 18
- Have never had a license revoked or suspended
- Be accredited by a VEC after passing their open-book examination on the rules
classes below their own; Extras may test for all)
How a session runs
Three accredited VEs of appropriate class must be present, in person or via video. They verify identity and FRN, administer the exam, grade it on the spot, issue the CSCE and file the paperwork with the VEC.
VEs may not test a close relative, and may not charge more than the annually-adjusted maximum fee (around $15) beyond costs.
Running sessions at your club
Clubs are the backbone of testing. If your area has no regular session, three accredited members and a room are enough to start one — see hosting exam sessions.