UK Amateur Radio Foundation Licence Guide
Getting into amateur radio in the UK has never been more accessible. Whether you’re curious about technology, communication, or just want a new hands-on hobby, the Foundation Licence is your first step onto the airwaves.
🚀 What is the Foundation Licence?
The Foundation Licence is the entry-level qualification for amateur radio in the UK. It’s designed to give you a safe, structured introduction to operating radio equipment while learning the basics of how it all works.
You don’t need to be an engineer, and you certainly don’t need prior experience—just an interest and a willingness to learn.
🧭 Getting Started
One of the biggest advantages of the Foundation Licence is how easy it is to begin:
- No prior knowledge required – everything starts from the basics
- No age limit – anyone can get licensed
- Flexible learning options
- Join a local club for training (often the best route)
- Study online or independently using official materials
At Grantham Amateur Radio Club, we regularly mentor and support new operators through every step of the process
📝 The Examination
To earn your licence, you’ll need to pass a single exam:
- 26 multiple-choice questions
- 60 minutes to complete
- Pass mark: 19/26 (73%)
Most people now take the exam online from home with remote invigilation, though some clubs still offer in-person sessions.
Good news:
👉 There are no mandatory practical assessments anymore—it’s all based on the theory exam.
📶 What Can You Do With It?
Recent updates (including changes in 2024) have made the Foundation Licence far more capable than it used to be.
With your licence, you can:
- 🔊 Transmit up to 25 watts on many amateur bands
- 🌍 Access HF, VHF, and UHF bands (local to worldwide communication)
- 📡 Experiment with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands (low power)
- 🛠️ Build your own equipment or use kits
- 👨👩👧👦 Let others operate your station under your supervision
Once you pass, you’ll be issued your own callsign (usually starting with M7 or M8)—your identity on the air.
📋 Licence Requirements
There are just a few things to keep in mind once you’re qualified:
- 💷 Exam fee: £35.50 (2026)
- ✅ Licence itself is free via the Ofcom online portal
- 📡 EMF Safety Assessment required for your station
- 🔄 Revalidation every 5 years (quick online check-in)
📈 What’s Next?
The Foundation Licence is just the beginning.
It’s part of a three-tier system:
- Foundation
- Intermediate
- Full Licence
As you progress, you gain:
- More transmit power
- Greater technical privileges
- Access to even more of the hobby
🤝 Why Join a Club?
Learning on your own works—but joining a club accelerates everything.
At Grantham Amateur Radio Club you’ll find:
- Friendly, experienced operators
- Hands-on demonstrations and support
- Regular meetings, events, and on-air activity
- A welcoming environment for complete beginners
We’ve been active since 1982 and are always keen to help new people get started,
📡 Final Thoughts
The Foundation Licence opens the door to a hobby that blends:
- Technology
- Communication
- Experimentation
- Community
From speaking across the world to building your own equipment, amateur radio offers something you simply won’t find anywhere else.
👉 If you’ve ever been curious—this is your moment to get started.
RSGB Foundation Licence Resources (Start Here)
Foundation Licence Overview & Syllabus
Find Online Training Courses
Ofcom Amateur Radio Licensing (Apply & Manage Your Licence)