FCC Question Pool Review

Technician Class (Element 2) • 2022-2026

Switch License

Question T1C11

From subelement T1 - T1C

T1C11
Answer: D

If your license has expired and is still within the allowable grace period, may you continue to transmit on the amateur radio bands?

AYes, for up to two years
BYes, as soon as you apply for renewal
CYes, for up to one year
DNo, you must wait until the license has been renewed

Why is this correct?

The correct answer is D. During the two-year grace period after license expiration, you cannot transmit until the renewal is processed and appears in the FCC database. Options A and C are wrong because transmitting with an expired license is prohibited regardless of grace period length. Option B is incorrect because simply applying for renewal doesn't restore transmission privileges - the renewal must be completed first.

Memory tip

Remember the key distinction: grace period means time to renew without retesting, not permission to transmit. The license must be active in the FCC database to authorize transmission. This pattern applies to all FCC licensing - expired means no operating privileges until renewed.

Learn more

During the grace period, think of your license as being in 'legal limbo' - it can be revived through renewal, but provides no current operating authority under Part 97. This protects the amateur service by ensuring only properly licensed operators transmit. The FCC Universal Licensing System database is the definitive source of current license status and operating privileges.

Think about it

Why do you think the FCC requires completed renewal rather than just filing an application before allowing transmission to resume?