Question T1C03
From subelement T1 - T1C
What types of international communications are an FCC-licensed amateur radio station permitted to make?
Why is this correct?
Option A is correct because Part 97.117 specifically allows international communications that are 'incidental to the purposes of the Amateur Radio Service and remarks of a personal character.' This includes discussing amateur radio topics and personal matters. Option B is wrong because conducting business is prohibited. Option C is too restrictive—contests are allowed but not the only permitted international communication. Option D is incorrect because amateur radio has different rules than broadcast stations.
Memory tip
Remember the key distinction: 'incidental to Amateur Radio Service purposes' versus 'incidental to conducting business.' The word 'incidental' appears in both A and B, but only A connects to amateur radio's fundamental purpose of self-training and experimentation. This pattern appears throughout Part 97—activities must serve amateur radio's mission.
Learn more
International amateur communications follow the same basic rules as domestic ones under Part 97. You can discuss your amateur radio activities, technical experiments, and personal life with foreign operators. However, certain countries have notified the ITU that they object to amateur communications with foreign operators, making contact with those nations prohibited. Third-party traffic to foreign stations requires special agreements between countries.
Think about it
Why do you think the FCC specifically allows 'personal character' remarks in international amateur communications, but prohibits business-related discussions?