Tech License Required After GROL?

[ModSquad3613]

Good Morning All,

I'm getting back in to the Amateur Radio world as I intend to purchase a dual band handheld for overlanding/Jeep use. While I was in the military I received my FCC GROL W/RADAR endorsement and it's still active.

My question is do I still have to get an Amateur Technician license for the Dual Band if I already have a GROL? If I read the FCC site correctly I'm going to have to take the Technician test to get a different Call Sign?

If anybody has any information on this, I would appreciate some assistance. Thanks for your time.

R/
ModSquad

 

[nd5y]

The GROL gives you no operating authority for ham radio. It is only good for the purposes listed at:
FCC: Wireless Telecommunications Bureau: Types of Licenses: General Radiotelephone

See the paragraphs at the top and bottom of the page at:
http://wireless.fcc.gov/commoperators/index.htm?job=wncol.

... A commercial operator license does not constitute or imply FCC authorization to transmit radio signals. Before you operate any radio station, make certain that the station is licensed as required by the FCC.

NOTE: Possession of a commercial radio operator license or permit does not authorize an individual to operate amateur or GMRS radio stations. Only a person holding an amateur or GMRS radio operator license may operate an amateur or GMRS radio station.

If you want to transmit on amateur radio frequencies you need an amateur license.

 

[ModSquad3613]

Thanks

Thank you for the prompt reply. I just wanted to verify what I was reading. This Amateur license will not stop my GROL from being active correct?

 

[nd5y]

This Amateur license will not stop my GROL from being active correct?

Correct. They are totally separate and unrelated. I have both.

 

[SteveC0625]

Thank you for the prompt reply. I just wanted to verify what I was reading. This Amateur license will not stop my GROL from being active correct?

They are two very separate and distinct licenses covering very different areas of radio maintenance and operation. One does not affect the other.

If I were you, I'd make sure that all of my FCC licenses remain current and valid. Depending on your career plans, the GROL could be a very, very important license to hang on to. Your soon-to-be amateur license probably won't be directly important to career goals, but it's a nice addition to your resume if you do pursue radio oriented employment.

 

[ModSquad3613]

Thanks Again

Thank You Sir! Off to find a testing site.

Cheers!

 

[KE4ZNR]

They are two very separate and distinct licenses covering very different areas of radio maintenance and operation. One does not affect the other.

If I were you, I'd make sure that all of my FCC licenses remain current and valid. Depending on your career plans, the GROL could be a very, very important license to hang on to. Your soon-to-be amateur license probably won't be directly important to career goals, but it's a nice addition to your resume if you do pursue radio oriented employment.

The GROL is a lifetime license.

And I do agree having both looks good if you are considering a career in the Radio System Engineering/Technician Field.

Marshall KE4ZNR

 

[nd5y]

Are you guys serious? The GROL is just like amateur licenses, dumbed down and nearly a joke. Everybody and his brother memorized the question pool and passed the GROL test without learning or knowing anything, just like in ham radio. The people in the industry (if they have 1/2 a brain) know this and know that GROL is basically worthless except in the few cases were it is legally required.

 

[ModSquad3613]

Thanks

Thanks again for all the replies.

I retired as a Senior Chief from the Navy (25 years in the Aviation Electronics field) and still work as an Instructor for the DoD. I got my GROL 12 years ago.

I've worked with all types of communications/detection equipment; HF, VHF, UHF, Data links, SATCOM, IFF, RADAR etc. So, I'm very familiar with operation and maintenance of these systems. I just need to brush up on civilian regulations and restrictions so I can get my rig set up for some trips this Summer.

I appreciate all the assistance.

Steve

 

[W8RMH]

With your experience and education Senior Chief you will breeze through all the amateur tests. You can take all three at the same time for the one price. By the way thank you for your service to our great nation.