ARRL On Ham Radio Testing, License renewals & Field Day amid Covid-19

[@jroysdon]

I just facilitated an ARRL VEC exam session today (April 4, 2020). We had confirmation the ARRL was continuing to process exams. Additionally, we were told we could upload our documentations to speed things along. We're in a state (California) and counties with "Stay at home" orders. We feel that this is essential and permitted by the Communications and Emergency sectors as we are very involved in ARES and used by our OES and hospitals and fire departments. We did take great precautions. Instead of having a 30-person testing session, we broke the testing up into 1-hour blocks, one person per table, all tables 15 feet apart, staggered so no one was behind/in front of anyone else. All VEs/Volunteers wore gloves and masks. About 25% of candidates wore masks, but we didn't require it, we only required they were not showing any symptoms of being sick or a temperature. We used the recommended bleach mixture and sprayed down all the plastic tables and chairs before testing, and between each hour block, letting it sit for the recommended 5 minutes before we wiped it back down to dry. The exam session went well. 17 candidates, 16 passed. 1 Extra upgrade, two new hams did Tech + General. I took the ARRL VEC up on their upload feature this evening, and submitted all the docs electronically. They'll still go in the mail tomorrow as well, but supposedly they'll get processed fairly fast via the electronic route. The biggest hardship we had is that we typically have 9 VEs for our exams - 3 to monitor, and two sets of 3 to grade. However, more than 2/3rds of our VEs are "high risk" older, retired folks, so we wouldn't even let them participate as we wanted zero risk from this event to affect them. 73 Kilo Golf Six Hotel

[@kb6dxn]

We are setting up testing now, we are looking to have one is 2 weeks.

[@rixoff]

This is great! Can you give more details?

[@philipcasteel5845]

If you're in need of guinea pigs, I am looking to take my Tech test as soon as I can find a test. But I'm sure you have plenty of people lined up and waiting haha

[@thomformichigan]

James Bowen please send me info I am ready to take my tech and the test got canceled

[@philipcasteel5845]

@@thomformichigan check the Hamstudy.org website for more remote testing info

[@joewilson2258]

The is one of the main reason I got my ham license and upgraded to the general license . From what I am seeing there is much more reason to be a ham radio operator and the other reason is the possible cell phone and internet interruption or grid going down . 73 to both of you for this interview .

[@simlay]

FYI the FCC is still processing licenses. I just had a license ssued a week ago. It took three days to get the new license.

[@scottbuttrick-w8skb396]

We held our first virtual club meeting last night on Zoom. It worked great and everyone had a great time.

[@LM-sc8lu]

I've been studying for my Tech, and possibly, my General License for six or seven weeks, and was planning on taking the test this spring, before my wife and I hit the road with our RV. But ya know, folks, there are more important things to worry about right now than our Licenses. Those of us who are trying for our first Licenses, can just cool our heels, study some more, and wait. I also think that License renewals should get an automatic extension. I'm in New York, and I haven't even investigated when or where the next, closest test was scheduled, and that's the LEAST of my worries right now. God speed everyone, be safe, and wait. This too will end.

[@schoocg]

Excuse my first rant ever on KZbin. I really like your channel. You say it like it is, you expose BS, real life reviews and point out issues that need addressed and funny too. I do not know you personally, but I feel you are an action oriented person and that ‘you take the bull by the horns’, kind of leader. Something greatly missing on the ARRL Board. This is BY FAR THE BEST AND WORSE video you have made. You have the guts to have an interview with what is the problem in the Ham radio echo system in the US. If the ARRL had their head stuck up their rears any further on this issue…well I will stop that metaphor before they yank my comments. But, all I heard was excuses, excuses, excuses.. When Ham radio is suppose to shine and take a leadership role in an emergency, and it does not get much worse than this to test the leadership of ARRL, they fall flat on their face and hide behind rules, regulations, excuses, the way it has always been done and the best yet, they are stuck on how it’s always been done since the dawn of mankind. Look around ARRL, rules are being broken at every level as long as it does not cause physical harm or death. Leaders stand above the crowd in crisis. They take responsibility and more importantly take on accountability for actions that may not be the norm. Look around ARRL, schools are being taught, tests are being taken, people are graduating…and its all being done by leaders that stand up and say, hey we will deal with the ramifications later on. Nothing today is being done the way it was, but ARRL is sitting around thinking about it and making excuses..by the time they think or take any action life may actually get back to normal and that would finally prove they have turned into an institution that does not properly standup for the average Ham operator anymore and even worse…the future of new Hams during a global crisis. Last week I ordered my first D-Star radio, yep one that you recommended. In talking to the customer support and tech over the phone he mentioned that sales at their company and others are at record levels. And the orders for first time HT and mobile VHF/UHF they can not keep them stocked. But the issue is these new Hams ask the same question..’how can I get licensed online’. Standup ARRL take responsibility and accountability and let every VE group do what ever they feel necessary to help these folks get licensed VIRTUALLY, THERE IS A FRIGIN PANDEMIC OUT THERE!!!!!!. ENCOURAGE THEM TO MOVE FORWARD!!! I do not think the FCC is going to come after anyone after the pandemic. And if they did the ARRL can tell the FCC to leave the VE’s alone and take accountability for your stated leadership direction and decision. As a note on 4-3-20 I had a short QSO with a new Ham on D-Star REF30C. He mentioned his friend had very recently tested for his Tech VIRTUALLY. They were from around the Bozeman Montana area. So, it appears some VE, at least one, has taken a leadership role. Stay safe and healthy my friend.

[@007cheburashka]

schoocg they could institute online testing quicker than they’re letting on. The testing process is VERY antiquated.. I remember testing 5 years ago at a ham fest and being shocked that I was handed old school pencil and paper and watched like a hawk by VE like a kid in grade school. 😂

[@schoocg]

@@007cheburashka fully agree. I was insulted for my first exam Tech. The only calculator I owned was a scientific calculator. They wanted to review all the memories on them to make sure I had not hidden answers in it. I said it had thousands of registers..they took my calculator away for the exam. They would not let me use my 0.5mm HB mechanical pencil either , though this is the standard pencil lead used for standardized tests for so many exams for the Feds. I have 6 years off college exams, numerous national standards exams, a pilot license and in the military (subs) a secret clearance. and never was I ever treated in this manner, with little respect and distrust. A complete turn off. My General Lic exam a tad better but not much. It was like the SS Gestapo administering exams to join their elite club. What a welcome to the hobby. Totally NOT how to do it. But, it seems consistent story from many, so where are they getting this directive for testing behavior... ARRL? Someone did.

[@NelsonReyesJr]

The FCC should do the exam completely online. The portal should have the questions scrambled each time and have a time limit to limit cheating and looking things up in a book. The test is then submitted and goes into a cue, and proctors can log in to check tests. Tests are pushed to proctors based on time from when the test was taken. When three have checked a test, it will be considered finalized. In this way you may have 3 proctors from different parts of the country. THANK YOU FOR A GREAT CHANNEL!!!

[@Iucky225]

Apparently hasn't heard of the W5YI session that we already VE'ed remotely nor the 2014 FCC R&O that does not require any waiver whatsoever to do a remote session. SMH

[@mattlord2906]

Jordan fades back, shoots, nothing but net.

[@PatrickDickey52761]

I'm assuming this interview was conducted before that happened. Bob isn't great about adding clarification for things like that.

[@Iucky225]

@@PatrickDickey52761 I sure hope so, but we did the test on 3/26 and this video was posted only 2 days ago. I understand editing takes time though so hopefully that's the case, seems odd to release a video like this after the fact without giving current information to avoid confusion.

[@Iucky225]

@@PatrickDickey52761 also doesn't explain why an ARRL director believes they need a waiver for something the FCC authorized 5+ years ago

[@ebreevephoto]

Thanks for the interview and whatever this information amounts to... I think it's pathetic that a group that inspires to learning and technology for so many years, and now in 2020 ONLINE testing is not available for this type of examination. I mean universities and other avenues of higher learning have been doing online testing for years.

[@007cheburashka]

Ben Reeve 100%. ARRL needs to stay relevant.. stop reminiscing on how the board members tested in the 1950s or whenever.

[@davesebring]

Thanks for this Bob, between You and Josh over at HRCC I'm chomping at the bit to take my test, I've been studying and I think I'm ready, but my local radio club in SB CA told me all testing cancelled here until SEPTEMBER! Well I guess that leaves me no excuse not to take and pass General at the same time :)

[@K6UDA]

You can do it!

[@TomJones-uf5sl]

Take the time to get the general! You'll be sharp for both!

[@skyscratcher8825]

Thanks for the update! I became Seriously interested in Ham last December and downloaded the study material and practice ARRL exams in mid January. My schedule as an airline pilot never meshed well with most exams in my area being on weekends. I have taken over 30 practice exams for technician (one a day for last month) and have passed everyone since the first 10 or so bad practice tests. Frustrated I Ordered 2 FT60Rs and Studying for General in the interim!

[@loctite222ms]

In my area I think it's groups no more than five is the current social distancing rules. Last exam I took wouldn't have been a problem. It was just me and the three VEs. For license renewals, first place I'd check is the FCC web site.

[@wb6ruu]

Very informative. Thanks for your effort and keeping the amateur radio community informed and entertained.

[@robertoellison348]

GREAT INTERVIEW BOB, We will just have to make do and enjoy the hobby from home..73 guys and GOD ALMIGHTY bless us ALL........FROM N3NDX..........04-0I-2020.........

[@milesmoore5422]

Why does anyone ask viewers to "Subscribe and hit the like button" before they've even seen the quality of the content ? 2. This is not a "Cerveza" shut down. It's a Government Shut Down using the excuse of the Cerveza to do it. 3. ARRL should be lobbying for testing since it's not a danger and is essential. 4. ARRL Tiemstra should give out the location that are still able to test. Even if it's in Alaska.

[@greatbasinadventures]

The publishing company, formerly a fraternity of amateur operators known as the American Radio Relay League, is irrelevant in 2020.

[@denniswall5802]

Dennis KD7KSW, I am in the likely to die if exposed to virus group. Dont care where the testing is I wont leave safety to advance.

[@miaminarc]

And this is the best time for them to listen listen listen. Like I did before I got my license. The whole earth is on lockdown/Pause. Everybody is in survival mode trying to look for food and supplies which are scarce . Everyone has cabin fever and is suffering to one degree or another. If you cannot get your drivers license,Pilots license or almost anything for right now. What makes us ham radio operators so special that we should defy the social distance mandates. And as far as field day everyone should go out in the backyard,every single day until the stay at home order has been lifted and make everyday field day. God Bless everyone and be healthy.

[@HamRadio2]

*GRABS POPCORN*

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Ham Radio 2.0 incoming!

[@trumperlifer9709]

Another excellent and pertinent video! Well done Bob!!!

[@donmorgan3873]

Excellent interview. Thankas Bob for interviewing Jim!

[@Shastasays]

W5YI has already performed online testing. Check out YT vid from Ham Radio 2.0 channel. FCC has no problem. ARRL seems to be lagging way behind.

[@raulgonzales1374]

ARRL is lagging behind, can somebody make a decision, without he-hawing around the bush.

[@Shastasays]

@@raulgonzales1374 Very true. That director is acting like ARRL does not want to move forward into the now. We have never before had the circumstances we are now faced with. we all have had to adapt and, do it somewhat quickly. Our ham group is adapting. We can't physically meet, but we can still talk and get together on the air. So I do not know wth ARRL is doing. They need to move forward and say , "How can we continue to reach our members? How can we get new hams tested. I was frustrated by their response to Bob K6UDA with his issue in Cali regarding the state wanting to remove repeaters when the utilities were shutting down during the wildfires. ARRL was tone deaf on that issue. Check out Bob's previous videos. We went to the Superfest in Milwaukee last Sept., and saw the previous ARRL CEO. His question was "How can ARRL get new members, retain the ones we have and get back the ones we lost? Well, this is one way. The ARRL has to move into the 21st century. We need the ARRL to step up and move forward. If no one has done something before, why not be the first. What I did not like about the ARRL Director's question was he did not know of anyone doing this. For the love of.. the other main VEC group is W5YI. Go and see if they are doing something along those lines. Collaborate with them. Both groups may benefit. We the membership are looking for leadership. That wasn't a leadership resonse. That was a handhold response for someone else doing their work. Sorry for the rant, but a decent organization can be better if they would wake up.

[@raulgonzales1374]

Your right on the money, Sheila!

[@Iucky225]

Let's just say this director may not know what he's talking about. More soon. : )

[@badideaworkbench5155]

I renewed about a week ago on the FCC website. The process cost nothing and took about 5 minutes.

[@jonathancotner7040]

I did the same.

[@alanb76]

Our FD Group has been discussing this. Would be nice if ARRL added a "dispersed group" classification, our logging software can handle that via internet and we can still act as a group, even keeping track of one transmitter per band/mode etc according to the rules. Thanks for this video, great questions and timing. - Alan w6akb

[@t0mmym385]

Excellent show interview great information hopefully they can get that remote testing in the works it would be beautiful God bless keep safe brother

[@ds-ov9yi]

I was in Utah last month, took and passed my extra - just varies by local club - its possible to live test and social distance. Again it's just a local club's choice if its offered

[@carln6ckv8]

Bob Thanks for asking my questions. Hopefully the FCC is automated enough that the new, upgrade and renewals continue to happen. Please do a follow up to see if you can get better answers in about 2 to 3 weeks. Nicely produced, like the format!

[@K6UDA]

Thanks Carl. Thanks for the questions.

[@tailgateworkbench87]

Thanks for the information. Passed both the Tech and General on March 14th so looks like I'll be waiting a while for a call sign. Fun Fun! Thanks again.

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

I want to take an online test. Hope something gets figured out soon because it is a great time to have some fun hamming it up.

[@willgilliam9053]

was working on my extra before the covid-19 outbreak. Just thought about how testing will be affected a few moments ago.

[@joewilson2258]

Thank you for this interview with the aarl representative . With the ever increasing number for people who getting infected during this time I am seeing no way to get a license or an upgrade in any license that we already have .

[@inkandbarrel]

So i would love to know what FCC rules are being referred to that stop online testing. Heck the rules list using video and internet.

[@HamRadioLady]

Great topic. Luckily I took my Extra class license last November and passed. I feel for those who were and are studying and got hung up on this. They did ask me if I wanted to become a VE. Now that is up in the air.

[@jroysdon]

You can still take the open-book VE test and submit it. It will take some time for the VEC to process it, but at least you'll be in the queue. I highly recommend becoming a VE. It's highly rewarding.

[@richmayberryk4snl361]

What a great video. Let’s hope to see them keep pushing. Our club will continue to plan for Field Day as if normal, but include a Plan B. Thanks for the video.

[@sire24657]

GREAT AND TIMELY INFO; thanks much as always. Thanks, Bob!!

[@Bob814u]

He is so right. Nobody was able to get on a plane and operate from the Caribbean . We had to depend on the operators IN the Caribbean. FM5BH (Martinique), 9Z4Y (Trinidad and Tobago), VP2MMF (Monserrat), P40A (Aruba), PJ2T (Curacao), J68HZ (St. Lucia), ZF1A and ZF5T (Cayman Islands), V47T (St. Kitts and Nevis), and KP4RV (Puerto Rico). Sometimes I wonder about the mentality of the ARRL. We should have been able to sent The Force of 50 to help. Oh wait, that was 30, no it was 25.

[@vicmiller7191]

I am glad I was one of the 5 or 6 watching. Thx for the interview it was informative and he seemed to be like the rest of us waiting for the unknown to be known. Thanks Bob 73 and stay safe. Vic KE8JWE

[@mattc.310]

Interesting interview. It doesn't seem like many higher-ups were thinking ahead on this. We'll be through this again. It's in the wild now. Plan and prepare. They'll have to figure out a solution or things will get messy. I hope everyone is doing well. Thanks for posting.

[@BlackHorseMilitia]

This all has been interesting. I saw other videoa talking about the exam online being done the other day.

[@CAphotos]

The one thing that's cause the cessation of testing is not so much the "social distancing" requirement, but the fact that most VECs are dependent on other organizations for the venues they use for testing. My particular VEC (not ARRL) depends on several churches and a city recreation center for testing. When all those were ordered to close, we had no choice but to shutdown testing. You're making it sound like the ARRL is the ONLY organization that conducts amateur radio license exams. In reality there are 14 different, independent, VECs giving exams. We're all involved in this shutdown.

[@K6UDA]

Yes, but the ARRL is the biggest and I don't know anyone from any of the other orgs.

[@kellyklaask7su990]

The ham radio club in Anchorage, Alaska does remote testing. I watched a video where our Idaho SM talked to several other SM's and the Northwest Director Mike Ritz W7VO. They had a teleconference call with the VE in Anchorage. (sorry, don't remember his name or call.) Remote testing, by their admission, is very awkward as they have to have a proxy with the person being tested. They also have to have a web cam aimed at the tester as well. It does work, but it is kludgy right now. By the time they get all the kinks worked out for this to be a widespread practice we will probably be on to Corona Virus 30. But, it is something to work toward. We had a testing session on March 21st. It was just 4 days before our governor gave us the "stay in place" order. Our next one is scheduled for May 23 but we may cancel it depending on the situation at the time. Thanks for the video.

[@rougaroux2359]

What I would like to know is how, when, and where to renew my license. This will be my first time renewing them and I do not want to loose something that I worked hard to get.

[@KREllis-vr1ix]

Every 10 years prior, prior to expiration, and it can be done on the FCC ULS database IIRC...or you can pay a service through QRZ to do it for you.

[@rougaroux2359]

K. R. Ellis thank you very much. I will be going to QRZ to do it.

[@paulfiorino7463]

This is a very useful video interview. Thanks!

[@burgesskj]

Testing was usually already done with around 4-5' of distance between test takers anyway. Just have wider spaces between the test takers, and add PPE (lots of us have that anyway, due to some of the volunteer work we do). Seems like a no-brainer to me .

[@Fireguy-]

Thanks for keeping us updated.

[@Cory182]

ULS continues to remain up and running without anyone at the FCC offices. Most applications submitted to ULS for new, modify, or renewal of licenses are fully automated and continue to be granted on business days.

[@denisemcjunkins3756]

Excellent video.

[@K6UDA]

Thanks

[@jtburns1522]

I believe they are doing renewals, I applied for a vanity callsign and it went through fine, although it was not granted. They’re still working it seems...

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

I think the technical test should be an online test. But the general and the extra class tests should be remote tests that are monitored.

[@ProbablyTooLoud]

I remember how important it felt to receive my license, upgrade, etc. Study and have fun !

[@SgtBooker44]

For what it’s worth, I renewed my license on 3-7, it was printed on 3-27 and I got it in the mail yesterday.

[@droningharry]

Bob I've been a VE now for 15 years this does make me sad. I know the Des Monies ARC had to cancel this years Hamfest which was just a few weeks away and of course I'm still very much crying in my Beer as they say about Dayton. I get it, I do hopefully this is a once in a lifetime thing. If not the social norms may change and so many of the things we've taken for granite might be history. I really hope not. It would really me me sad if the only place I could see a new Rig was online or on KZbin. I'm a touchy-feely, kinda guy. (I know......) I like spinning the tires and driving her. In fact we bought a new Fusion just before this really became an issue here in Iowa, great interest rate, we have not heard anything from FMC about our payments yet, so that makes me wonder. On the good side, I just bought a Icom IC-7300 today. Can't wait to unbox it and put it to work. Keep happy and keep retail alive. Good Video!

[@K6UDA]

Thanks

[@lottsphoto]

ARRL FD is a Contest look it up ARRL FD is listed under Contesting and Contest results Now that does not mean you must approach it as a Contest Many clubs have only one or two members on the air While 50 or so show up for the "meal", then they have Eye Ball QSO's but never actually sit down in front of a Radio So please do not Tell me ARRL FD is NOT a Contest, it is whatever you and your team want it to be! Anyone that has operated in the Field during an emergency for 5 days or more Will greatly appreciate having operated at many ARRL FD events in a contest mode (long hours with little rest in front of a radio) ARRL FD Contest style prepared this operator for exactly such an emergency Steve KG5VK

[@francismcclaughry3794]

I don't have arrl member ship. but I sure miss being able to the mag at the ham shop in Evansville. Indiana he retired and I have not had one of mag oh for at least six month to year and I[m loner to the local ham meetings. I moved here and when I lived up north you knew the hams so when we moved down here my girl friend thought the ladies of the club were cold to her

[@ko4gpa]

I’m scheduled to test next Saturday.

[@K6UDA]

Good luck

[@ko4gpa]

K6UDA well never mind. Our governor just passed a mandatory stay at home order. At least the plant I work at is an “essential” business.

[@denisemcjunkins3756]

I hope to get my technical license. Meanwhile I am learning how to use my Kenwood TH D74 and thinking of getting another TH D74 for my husband to use.

[@Ranchhand323]

Thank you Bob !

[@AlfredArcher]

Good Morning and Thank You for the Interview. Alfred K4VAO 👍🏾

[@wmcg.1091]

I honestly don’t care for the ARRL to begin with. I don’t give them any $ and there are no plans to give them any in the future!!!!!

[@kb9oak749]

Just have the VE's look over electronically submitted tests.

[@thomaskieber-emmons4293]

There are tests that are given online as administered by Governmental organizations that are “graded” immediately- so why VEs at all.

[@thomaskieber-emmons4293]

I’m also a newbie and chopping at the bit to take the Tech exam. That said on line testing is the digital age. In Texas on line testing (without proctoring) is used for course completion for License to Carry a Firearm. The exam is multiple choice like The Ham exams and the test is graded immediately. This type of software platform is being experimented with by the General Services Administration of the US Government to assess competencies for hiring. People worry about cheating but there are ways to avoid this. Proctoring with multiple VEs is certainly a legacy associated with the old way of doing things. And if I want to be cynical their roles can be replaced by software and ID validation techniques used in present practice.

[@dalejohnson9342]

I am interested in getting information about what is going to happen to people like me who have licenses expiring this year. Is the F C C going to allow us to file for renewal earlier than the three month time frame that is currently in place? I also have to change my address as I live most of the year with my new wife in Thailand and make trips back to the States each year under normal circumstances. Will I be able to renew and change my address at the same time and will I be able to do both at an earlier date than early renewal? This information will be greatly appreciated.

[@K6UDA]

Inquiring minds want to know. Mine included.

[@hamout227]

We need online testing ASAP

[@raulgonzales1374]

I agree with you Ryan Hall!

[@denisemcjunkins3756]

The tech license user usually will be using their skills if there is an emergency or just regular communications. But most general and extra class will do a base station or more advanced radio experiments. So they definitely need to have excellent mathematics and electrical knowledge.

[@campingconcepts5880]

Good video! Like the split screen and the news scroll at the bottom..... K4VDB

[@bobbwest]

d s Tried to confirm that the FCC is OK with online testing, but could find anything -- can you share your source or a citation? This would be great!

[@K6UDA]

Go watch the live streams by ham radio 2.0 and HRCC.

[@terrygraham4555]

Bob I heard on one of the you tube channels that someone has already done online testing and got there tech license call sign the next day. Thank you for the great videos. From Terry Graham KE7OMU

[@VK9TOM]

In Australia the government and the AMC have said no exams until further notice

[@nsixvl]

The guest's callsign is K6JAT. Yet the banner in the video says N6JAT. Perhaps the video can be edited and reposted? I discovered this when looking up the callsign on qrz.com.

[@Waterboy2000]

Great interview! Thanks.

[@gosman949]

I went on-line and did my processing for my license renewal on 3/6/2020. I have heard nothing back and have not received my new renewed license yet. Should I be worried? My license expires on 5/30/2020. Is there a grace period? Yes we need to know if the FCC is shut down or not. WA5KUG

[@rohnkd4hct260]

Remote Testing will come......... one day. It makes sense. I did Field Day from home several times would run low power.

[@denisemcjunkins3756]

Let the technical license be an online form. Then the general and extra class be online and monitored.

[@DHarrisChillin]

For now I'll be using 2.4GHz bands with AREDN firmware to do what I can until I can test for my license.

[@n8nkqrp595]

Hams must remember that Field Day is not the ARRL. It's now way, way beyond the ARRL. I personally cannot wait until FD. If there is a movement to cancel an event in which I am told that I can't drive alone, into the middle of the Huron National Forest that covers 1/3 of Michigan.. and operate FD- they are insane. I'll be there. And I bet I'll work lot of stations. I only actually entered my results the first year, in 1994, class 1B1-battery QRP. and I bet many are the same way.. they just wanna have fun. Great vid, UDA 73

[@edlapinski341]

Bob call is K6UDA not just UDA!!!!!!! de KV1P

[@n8nkqrp595]

@@edlapinski341 how am I supposed to respond to this... by calling you 'P' ? lol. He's called me 'NK' a few times so the format stuck I suppose. 73

[@thedeafmoose935]

So if online testing is allowed then does it matter by where you take the online test? Like one website from another?

[@K6UDA]

Nope. Just find one and test.

[@thedeafmoose935]

K6UDA ah now I have no excuse to not get my General ticket.

[@rayh592]

Two months of cancelled tests here in PA. No end in sight. It appears the ARRL is a dinosaur. This should have been figured out 20 years ago.

[@turtlecreek4633]

Thought I was subscribed, sorry I guess since I watch you so much, your videos just keep showing up with our being subscribed. YT should work on that

[@chadhulsizer]

Badge protectors, anyone who has been in the military knows what im talking about. Online testing needs to happen now.

[@lawrencemayfield9669]

I take college classes remotely. Why does this need to have an in person proctor?You will have more new hams and more sales of equiptment if you just got an online standard especially for techs.

[@garygosslin1708]

I think that it should be put to the VE's

[@kb9oak749]

These guys (ARRL) are really out of the loop.

[@CAphotos]

Most licensed hams, unless they are active VEs, don't have the slightest clue how the process actually works. Sure, they're aware that it takes at least three VEs to administer an examination, but they are woefully ignorant of what happens AFTER the exam session. They're also unaware of the pertinent FCC regulations that govern testing. They seem to think that because universities use online testing, it's a simple matter to put something in place for amateur radio testing.

[@miaminarc]

Since 97% of us are at that extremely dangerous age of dying from the virus, who gives a rats A** if they suspend testing for 6 months or a year. Remember if we enter into any type of Emergency grid down situation,YOU DON"T NEED A LICENSE to use a ham radio ! Just my 2 cents.

[@KREllis-vr1ix]

What about new prospective HAMs that aren't licensed and don't have the ability to practice radio prior to being in an emergency?

[@stanleyhall2381]

Find ‘me, mentor ‘me.

[@stanleyhall2381]

Damned spell checker: find ‘em, mentor ‘em.

[@sasines]

The virus will be over before the remote testing can be established. If your studying for technician license just keep studying and when testing is resumed be ready to go all the way to extra. Just a thought.

[@unclebudd]

Hamdata dot com is showing processing, 328 on April 3rd

[@lyfandeth]

Social distancing is only to slow the spread. This virus can survive for three weeks on hard surfaces (metals, plastics) and the aerosol after someone sneezes remain viable for over three hours. So if you want safe testing, you *must* first sanitize the room. Ensure everyone is masked and gloved. Sanitize the exams before they are handed out/in. Social distancing is simply *not* effective when you are in the same space. Touching the same doorhandles. Lots of extra detail work. Look up the Biosafety Hazard levels. We are reacting as if this is a Class2 hazard. It isn't. It is a Cat3 or Cat4, depending on which rules you choose to follow. Sorry to bear the bad news.

[@robertrockwell7581]

sorry but this guy on testing too me was just i don't know- i don't know- i don't know. i was also wondering about this same subject. and this did not clear it up.

[@joecraft4409]

Hold on, I'm #7 watching!

[@ebreevephoto]

HOW I CAN I ENJOY HAM RADIO WHEN I CAN'T TEST!!!!! yes I am pissed off

[@chrispowell3664]

I'm sure glad I upgraded to General last Summer. I wanted to take my extra this year. All we can do is see how this all plays out. Here is a update video on remote testing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5CZhYponrSZe7M

[@K6TJO]

Enjoyed K6TjO

[@jeffminnick5209]

Just seems online testing could be an easy cheat...just a thought WD8JM

[@raulgonzales1374]

Online testing is not an easy cheat if your on camera, with a proxy in close proximity. Online testing is the way to go, everybody else is doing it. My daughter has one course to go to become a registered Nurse and the course is being done online in Texas.

[@warplanner8852]

Bureaucratic nothingburger re field day.

[@XPFTP]

again arrl makin things ahrder.. cam software. 3 VEs and 5 testers. get over it already .. its why i never joined them. they make things way way harder all around

[@mv1arms]

Guess what. You don't need a license to transmit. It's just illegal to.

[@n6cid]

Yawn....