# Amateur Radio Overview

Part of the Radio Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/radio/guide/index.md)

*8. Option A: Amateur Radio*

> **8.** Option A—Amateur Radio. Do ALL of the following: **Amateur Radio**

Amateur radio ("ham radio") is the oldest and most versatile radio hobby. Hams communicate by voice, Morse code, and digital modes; they provide emergency communications when all other systems fail; they bounce signals off the moon, through satellites, and around the world via the ionosphere. This option walks you through the purpose, licensing, vocabulary, and practice of amateur radio.

## What You'll Complete

- **[Req 8a1 — Why Amateur Radio Exists](../req8a1/):** Learn why the FCC created the amateur service and what licensed hams can do on the air.
- **[Req 8a2 — License Classes](../req8a2/):** Understand the three amateur license levels — Technician, General, and Extra — and who administers the exams.
- **[Req 8a3 — Q Signals & Terms](../req8a3/):** Learn at least five Q signals or amateur radio terms used in everyday ham communication.
- **[Req 8a4 — Emergency Calls](../req8a4/):** Know how to make an emergency call on voice or Morse code.
- **[Req 8a5 — Transceivers & Repeaters](../req8a5/):** Compare handheld, mobile, and base station radios and understand how repeaters extend range.
- **[Req 8a6 — Make a Contact](../req8a6/):** Conduct a 10-minute real or simulated contact using proper procedures and log it.

### Getting Started

If possible, contact a local amateur radio club before beginning these requirements. The American Radio Relay League (ARRL) maintains a [club finder](https://www.arrl.org/find-a-club) that can connect you with hams in your area. Many clubs offer "ham-in-a-day" events, field days, and mentoring specifically for Scouts.

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- Next: [Why Amateur Radio Exists](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/radio/guide/req8a1/index.md)