They visit with other hams across town or across the world, using the simplest of radio setups and antennas. Hams range in age from under 6 to over 100. People from all walks of life pass the entry level amateur radio exams and become part of the ham radio family.
Amateur radio is a hobby of personal enjoyment.
But in times of need, hams are transformed into self-trained public service communicators, ready and able to help their neighbors during emergencies and natural disasters. Becoming a Ham can be very easy. The Novice license lets you talk by radio using voice, Morse code or computers, giving you many options for local, regional or worldwide contacts. The Technician license lets you talk by radio using voice or computers. There is no Morse code exam for the Technician license.