Obtaining a Commercial Radio Operator License

For All Licenses and Permits (Except RP)

Submit FCC Form 605 and FCC Form 159 (fee processing form) along with the appropriate Proof of Passing Certificates (for the requisite written and/or telegraphy examination elements) to apply for any commercial operator license, with the exception that endorsement examinations do not require the filing of the Form 159 or any fees. Also, Restricted Radiotelephone Operator permits have no proof of passing certificate requirement. Use the FCC Form 605 and the FCC Form 159 to renew your license or to replace a lost, stolen, or mutilated license. Many Commercial Operator License Examination (COLE) Managers file these documents for applicants who test with them. Ask your COLE Manager if they provide this service to their customers.

Applicants for radiotelegraph operator's certificates and six months service endorsements must submit TWO identical, passport type photographs taken within the last six months. Photographs must be:

• signed by the applicant on the front along the left side. Signature must be clearly visible and not mar the facial features in the photographs, and must match the signature on the application; and

• not less than 2 x 2 inches nor more than 2.5 x 3 inches; and

• clear, full face (head and shoulders only).

Photographs are acceptable in black and white or color with a light, plain background. Newspaper, magazine, or photocopied photographs are not acceptable. Enclose photographs in a plain white envelope, labeled on the outside with the word "PHOTOS" and your name. Staple the envelope to the back of your application. Photographs are also required for any renewal or administrative update application.

Operating While Application is Pending

Provided that a person's commercial radio operator license was not revoked, or suspended, and is not the subject of an ongoing suspension proceeding, a person whose application for a commercial radio operator license has been received by the FCC but which has not yet been acted upon and who holds a Proof of Passing Certificate(s) indicating that he or she passed the necessary examination(s) within the previous 365 days, is authorized to exercise the rights and privileges of the operator license for which the application was received. This authority is valid for a period of 90 days from the date the application was filed.

 Examinations
 Examination Question Pools
 COLE Testing Managers, Locations, Schedules, and Fees

Return to Top

Last reviewed/updated on 12/5/2005.