US Amateur Radio Band Chart

The FCC allocates 16 frequency bands to the Amateur Radio Service under 47 CFR Part 97. Each band is divided into segments where specific modes are permitted: CW (Morse code), phone (voice via SSB, FM, or AM), digital data (FT8, RTTY, PSK31), and image modes (SSTV, ATV). These allocations ensure different activities can coexist without interference.

HF bands (160m through 10m) provide long-distance communication via ionospheric propagation. VHF bands (6m and 2m) support both local repeater networks and occasional long-distance openings via sporadic-E propagation. UHF bands (70cm and above) are primarily used for local communication, repeaters, satellite contacts, and amateur television.

Technician licence holders have full access to all VHF and UHF bands, making them ideal for local repeater work, simplex communication, and getting started with ham radio. On HF, Technicians get CW privileges on portions of 80m, 40m, 15m, and 10m (with SSB voice on 10m at 28.3-28.5 MHz), all at 200W PEP max.

General class operators gain access to most of every HF band, opening up worldwide DX communication. The General exam adds 35 questions on radio theory, regulations, and operating practices beyond the Technician material.

Amateur Extra is the highest US licence class. Extra operators get exclusive access to small segments at the bottom of several HF bands. These segments are less crowded and often where the most experienced operators make contacts. The Extra exam covers advanced radio theory and electronics.

New to ham radio? See our top picks for beginner radios, or check out our guide on the differences between VHF and UHF.

While you can operate on any frequency within your licence privileges, the ham community has established standard calling frequencies where operators gather to make initial contact.