The FCC website is one of the most confusing ways to manage our licenses. However, it’s the only way to change, update, upgrade, or search for license information. We have split out the following topics to help you complete specific tasks. Please note that the FCC has two separate systems you must keep updated. The first is the CORES system, which is used to maintain your Federal Registration Number. The second is the Uniform Licensing System (ULS). It is used to renew, update, and print your amateur radio license. The FCC requires that you have an FRN associated with your Amateur Radio ULS license. Make sure you manage both systems.
Create Your First FCC Federal Registration Number (FRN)
A Federal Registration Number is the first requirement to obtain your amateur radio license. This number is used to identify you to the FCC, and this is where all of your amateur radio license information is stored. To start this process, click on this link and start answering questions. You will receive a 10-digit FRN and credentials (username/password) that you can use to log back in and view or change any license-related information. Keep that information safe so you can log back in and renew or change any information.
Request CORES Verification Email
The CORES system manages your Federal Registration Numbers (FRNs), and the initial email verification will expire in 24 hours. If you miss the first email and need to verify your CORES account, this link will let you request an additional verification email.
Search the FCC Applications in Process
To look up the process of applications, click this link.
Search FCC FRN Information by FRN
If you want more information about a given Federal Registration Number (FRN), you may click on this link to enter the FRN and see what information is available.
Check Your (or Any Ham’s) FCC Information Online
If you want to view information regarding any amateur radio license, you can click on this link. There you can enter callsigns or many different search criteria and click the search button.
Update Your FCC FRN Data
You can update your FRN information at this link if you have your FRN and the password.
Update Your CORES Data
If you have the email address and password, you can update your CORES information using this link.
Pay FCC License Fees Online
Once the FCC starts charging a $35 application fee for an amateur radio license application or modification, you can pay these fees by clicking this link and logging in with your FRN credentials.
Change / Reset Your FCC Password Online
You can change or reset your FCC password by clicking on this link. If you can’t find your FRN by name, you can find it on that page. Another way to easily find your FRN is to look at the callsign detail page on QRZ.com.
Renew or Update Your FCC Amateur Radio License
You can change your physical address and email address or print a paper copy of your amateur radio license by clicking on this link. Remember that you must now have an email address on file here with the FCC. That will be how they contact you if they need to talk with you.
- To print your license, select the green bar that says to download a copy of your official electronic authorizations here.
- To renew your license, select the Renew Licenses link on the left side of the page.
- To update your information, select the Update link on the right side of the page.
Obtain an Official Copy of Your Amateur Radio License
The FCC no longer mails a paper copy of your license to your physical address. However, they provide you with a method of obtaining an official copy at the link above. They provide instructions and links to obtain your license are available by clicking this link.
Canceling an FCC License
The license holder can cancel a license by using the Universal License System (ULS) log-in credentials and visiting this FCC link.
Silent keys can be reported directly to the FCC with supporting documentation. More information is available at this link.