An approach to upgrading
The Foundation Licence, as an entry-point to amateur radio, is providing experience with hobby communications and the opportunity for further hands-on learning. A key message to those wanting to upgrade is to know what is involved so they can make an informed decision, prepare and commit to a period of study.
It is important to have a commitment in terms of time and effort to study over a number of weeks. Plus an understanding that the Standard Licence is not simply ‘more of the same’ that was studied for the Foundation Licence. The Foundation Licence requires knowledge at a very basic level, to enable a person to competently operate a low powered amateur radio station on selected bands and a few modes of transmission.
The Standard Licence needs knowledge of a wider range of topics, some which will be more in-depth than the basic approach taken in the Foundation Licence. This is necessary to reflect the greater operating privileges given to this licence.
The three tier amateur licence restructure consists of the popular entry level Foundation Licence, Standard Licence and Advanced Licence.
They align with standards adopted by the International Amateur Radio Union.
