Question T1A05
From subelement T1 - T1A
What proves that the FCC has issued an operator/primary license grant?
Why is this correct?
The official proof of FCC amateur radio licensing is when your license appears in the FCC ULS (Universal Licensing System) database. This electronic record is the legal authorization to transmit. A printed CSCE certificate only shows you passed the exam, and NCVEC doesn't grant licenses—only the FCC does. The ULS database entry is what makes your license legally valid.
Memory tip
Remember the pattern: for FCC licensing questions, look for the official FCC system as the answer. The ULS database is the government's authoritative record system. When in doubt between paper documents and electronic databases for federal licensing, the database is typically the official proof.
Learn more
The ULS database serves as the definitive legal record under Part 97 regulations. This electronic authorization system replaced paper licenses as the primary proof of operator privileges. In practical operation, you can access the ULS anytime to verify any amateur's license status, call sign assignments, and operator class privileges. Many repeater systems and contest logging software also query the ULS to verify operator credentials and frequency privileges automatically.
Think about it
Why do you think the FCC moved from paper licenses to an electronic database system as the official proof of amateur radio licensing?