Classes and exam sessions

California

Licensing class

Downey ARC & City of Downey license class

November 14–15, 2026 · 0800-1700

Class level:
Technician
Class type:
Weekend or one day
Location:
DoeneyvFire Station #1, 12222 Paramount Blvd., Downey, CA 90242
Sponsoring organization:
Downey ARC & City of Downey
Instructor:
KI6JAR
Fee:
$15
Website:
https://www.arrl.org/courses/downey-ca-90242-38
Additional information:
These classes are done in the "Gordon West" sfyle. He's the Ham who wrote the textbook that we use and has spent many years teaching classes himself. Now retired, he only teaches classes to train radio teachers in his very successful teaching methods. This means face-to-face lecture, student participation,live radios in the classroom (which you will be using yourself on Saturday morning], and lots of radio components for you to examine. No PowerPoint, other than maybe a few pictures. The classes run for one weekend, both Saturday and Sunday, from 8 AM until about 5 PM. We do start on time, whether you are there or not. Ending time is somewhat variable, as it depends on the number of questions you ask and the level of student participation. Traffic is not bad at that hour on Saturday and Sunday morning. Sorry we can't say the same about your return home in the evening. Once you register, we will send you the details on how to get your book and your study and information packet. This packet includes a very important Q&A, prepared by Gordo. It is your main study aid, along with the textbook. There will be some study tips, and some other miscellaneous materials, depending on what's available from our supplier at the time of your registration. Bring the textbook and the Q&A with you to class on Saturday morning, Anyone can become a licensed Ham, there are no age limits. There are Hams under 10 years old, and some (not manyJ over 100. Our goal is to have some fun and learn more than what is needed to pass the exam. There will be a couple of video clips and some slides, but the presentation is mostly lecture. The process is that YOU study and learn the material as much as possible, then come to class and we "fill in the blanks" and answer any questions that you may have. We'll go through the entire book in the two days. The test is 3 5 multiple choice questions, and 26 is the passing grade. If you study as suggested, complete the homework, and pay attention in class, you should have little trouble passing the exam, even ifyou are new to electronics. Dress comfortably. Come to enjoy, meet new friends, and even enrich your life a bit. Many say they have met a lifelong goal. Remember that Ham radio is supposed to be fun, and it sure can be. It can be cool in the classroom, you might want to bring a light jacket After the exam, we raffle off a hand-held amateur radio. All who completed the class and passed the exam are entered into the raffle. Class days include morning and afternoon breaks, and a free lunch each day. Lunch isPizza on Saturday and deli sandwiches on Sunday. You will be able to specify a choice for both. Refreshments are also provided. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, and breakfast pastries. If you want sodas, bring your own. Note that the FCC will bill you for $35 after they receive your application. They will use your provided email address for this purpose, and instructions will be in that email

Good to know

Exam offeredPre-registration requiredPre-study required

Directions in Google Maps

In person

2 sessions

Dates & times

November 14–15, 20260800-1700

Contact

Ralph Wynkoop, KI6JAR
rewynk@gmail.com
(562) 895-7776

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