N3LFMidTENN Nationwide Testing

Youth under 17 test free! Schedule an exam

Exam day

Take the exam

Already registered and ready to go? Follow these four steps on exam day.

Join the Zoom sessionOpen ExamTools
Yagi beam antennas on an amateur radio tower
Photo: Sterling Coffey, CC BY 2.0

Test now

Exam procedure

  1. Register

    Sign up for a session on HamStudy.org.

  2. Join Zoom

    Open the exam Zoom room to start your test session.

  3. Open your exam

    When the examiner asks, open the ExamTools applicant portal to begin.

  4. Relax

    Take a deep breath. You've studied for this.

Before exam day

Important instructions

Read these before your session so your exam can start on time.

Install the latest Zoom Workspace app on both of your devices before your session. It gives you the best possible exam experience.
Chris, N3LF

An operator sending code at a portable Field Day station
Photo: Greg Heartsfield, CC BY 2.0

Ideal room setup

Side view of an exam setup: you sit at a desk facing your computer, and a phone on a stand behind you points at you, your screen and your desk. 2 1

1 · Computer: your exam and Zoom, in front of you.

2 · Phone: joined to Zoom on a stand behind you, pointed at you, your screen and your desk.

Recording consent and two devices

  • You need two devices. Any combination works: PC and phone, tablet and phone, or two phones.
  • A 360° scan of the room and a clear view of your work area are required.
  • By joining, you agree to applicable recording laws and consent to the recording, storage, and possible review of video, audio, and images.
  • Recordings are stored securely and never shared unless misconduct is detected. In that case they may be sent to the FCC.
  • Remove personal or confidential items from your exam space.

Get your FRN

  • You need an FCC Registration Number (FRN) to apply for a license.
  • If you don't have one, request it instantly through FCC CORES.
  • Current license holders already have an FRN linked to their call sign.
Get your FRN

Applicants under 13

  • We love welcoming young operators. COPPA requires a parent or legal guardian to complete a consent form.
  • Download the form during registration on HamStudy.org.
  • Email the completed form to coppa@examtools.org and chris@n3lf.com.
  • Both the parent or guardian and the minor must consent to the session recording.
Download the COPPA form

Photo ID

  • Have an official photo ID ready to show the examining team.
  • A birth certificate, school ID, passport, or similar official document is also accepted.

Preparing your devices

  • Close all non-essential apps: email, messaging, alerts, Teams, Discord, games, and remote-access software.
  • During the exam, only Zoom and a web browser may be open.
  • A team member will briefly check your device before you start.
  • Headphones are fine for talking beforehand, but you'll remove all wearables (headphones, smartwatches, smart glasses) before the exam begins.

Preparing your space

  • Choose a quiet, private room and keep your camera on the whole time.
  • Cover or turn off any screens in view. A towel or sweatshirt works.
  • Clear away books, notes, posters, and any study material.
  • Take the exam alone, without help. Applicants under 18 may have a parent or guardian present.
Join the Zoom session