Taking the test tomorrow

scanner99 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 04:48 PM

I am taking my tech test tomorrow and have a few questions. First just to make sure it cost 15 dollars correct? How long does taking the test normally take? Should i fill out the FORM 605 before i go for the test? Do you find out if you passed the same day you take it? What should i bring to the test? Thanks for any advice.

DDan · #2 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scanner99

I am taking my tech test tomorrow and have a few questions. First just to make sure it cost 15 dollars correct? How long does taking the test normally take? Should i fill out the FORM 605 before i go for the test? Do you find out if you passed the same day you take it? What should i bring to the test? Thanks for any advice.

The cost will depend on the group giving the test. The cost should be $15 or less, take small bills to assist the VECs. The time it takes will vary depending on your knowledge of the material, if you know your stuff it might only take a few minutes. The VECs will pass out the 605s at the test and even if you have yours already filled out, you will have to wait for everyone else to finish theirs. The VECs will grade your test after you hand it in and give you the results. You probably should have a basic calculator for some of the math although some don't need it. If you take a fancy programmable model, be prepared to demonstrate the lack of stored programming. Don't depend on using the calculator on your cell phone as you are required to turn it off.

Good luck and welcome to the hobby.

W9RXR · #3 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 06:32 PM

Make sure you have your drivers license or other form of governement-issued photo ID.

The VEs running the test session will probably want to run the tests as a group. They'll make sure everybody has their From 605 filled out and has paid. Then they'll sit you all down as a group, give some instructions, and then pass out the test. It's just a little easier to proctor a test if everybody is operating on the same time line.

Be very careful taking your test. Read the questions carefully to make sure there isn't any tricky language or reverse logic. Fill out the answer sheet exactly how the VEs instruct you. They will grade your test on the spot and, if you pass, they will issue you a Certificate of Successful Completion of Examination (CSCE) which is your "receipt" that you passed the test. There may be a bit of a delay completing this paperwork after the test because three VEs have to grade your test independently and they all have to sign your CSCE. Do not leave the testing facility without your CSCE.

Usual testing caveats apply. Go to the restroom before you go in to take the test so that will be one less thing to distract you. Take a couple of pencils and a basic, 4-function calculator to the test session. Arrive ahead of time. Keep relaxed and focus on you taking the test. Don't let other things going on in the room distract you.

Good luck!

w8jjr · #4 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 06:51 PM

Yup just as other described. Relax and reread each question

Good Luck

blinddog50 · #5 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 07:38 PM

Take your tech book with you and brush up on the things that you have had the most trouble remembering.
Just leave your book in the car prior to testing.
You should do well, just relax, it's not a matter of life or death.
Good Luck.

scanner99 · #6 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 07:43 PM

Are the questions the same as the public pool of questions that are publicized?

W9RXR · #7 (**permalink**) 04-10-2009, 08:22 PM

The test questions are drawn from the published test question pool. If you have been studying the current pool, you should be in good shape.

scanner99 · #8 (**permalink**) 04-12-2009, 12:51 AM

I got my tech license missing one question now the wait for my call sign.

burner50 · #9 (**permalink**) 04-12-2009, 01:28 AM

Congratulations...

And welcome back to high school style drama...

w8jjr · #10 (**permalink**) 04-12-2009, 02:38 AM

welcome aboard

W9RXR · #11 (**permalink**) 04-12-2009, 07:15 AM

Congratulations!

cqcqcq · #12 (**permalink**) 04-12-2009, 11:18 PM

CONGRATULATIONS, get on the air as soon as you canm if no gear just follow the instructions on ECHOLINK, and in a short time you will be on..

CQCQCQ

ki4rvh · #13 (**permalink**) 04-13-2009, 03:37 PM

Congratulations! Good job only missing one!

RADIOGUY2002 · #14 (**permalink**) 04-13-2009, 03:51 PM

Congrats, 73*

jleverin · #15 (**permalink**) 04-13-2009, 04:02 PM

Congrats on passing the license test! I just passed last month, the hardest part was the 7 day wait fo the call sign to show up in the FCC database but it did, so don't freak out if it takes a few days. I joined my local ham club and am having loads of fun with being a ham. I recommend getting involved with a local group if you have one in the area, fortunately the ham club in my town is very friendly and open to new hams. Hopefully you can find a group like that, again good luck and congrats!

gcgrotz · #16 (**permalink**) 04-16-2009, 10:04 AM

Yeah, congratulations and welcome!

Sorry about the 7 day wait. I remember the good old days when I had to wait 6 weeks. We had no internet either, and I had to walk 5 miles through a blizzard up hill both ways to take the test!

Seriously though, welcome.

scanner99 · #17 (**permalink**) 04-21-2009, 12:37 AM

Got my call sign today

Adam
KI6YOP

gcgrotz · #18 (**permalink**) 04-21-2009, 09:42 AM

Congratulations Adam!

You didn't even have to walk through a blizzard! That would have been something considering you're in LA. I was in Long Beach last Oct for a wedding, 4 days of sun, food, and beer!

brighterisbetter · #19 (**permalink**) 05-06-2009, 08:32 PM

Congrats on passing though I'm a bit late to the party. I've just started reading Gordon West's book myself and it all seems very interesting. Lots to learn