Free Ham Radio Classes at DLARC
Learn. Practice. Get Licensed.
Where to start?
You don’t need to take our classes to test for your license, but we offer them free of charge—and they’re a great way to learn, practice, and have fun.
Our classes go beyond test prep with hands-on training, exposure to real equipment, and practice using proper radio protocol at our DLARC Station W3OK.
Each higher license level—Technician, General, Amateur Extra—offers more frequencies and privileges.
Please note: Amateur Radio Licenses must be earned in sequence.
Yes, the Technician License will allow you on-the-air privileges!
Technician
If you’re new, begin with the Technician License, the entry-level license.
General
For those with a Novice or Technician license, our General License classes are the next step.
When and where
Class Schedule
DLARC offers Technician and General classes on nine consecutive Tuesday evenings from 7:00–9:00 PM, with a short break at 8:00.
Attendance is flexible—come as you can.
Sessions start in March and September.
Location
Classes meet at the Northampton County 911 Center, 100 Gracedale Ave., Nazareth, PA 18064.
Please park in the front lot — side parking near the building is reserved for 911 employees.
How to Register
Registration is NOT required for classes. To get answers to your questions and let us know you may be visiting, call 610.419.9286 and leave a message, or email KE3AW@arrl.net
License Testing
After 9 weeks of classes, the 10th Tuesday is test night—held at the same location.
Registration is required for the test.
Getting Ready
Study Guides
We recommend Gordon West and ARRL study guides for both Technician and General. New copies are available at cost during class, or you can order online—just make sure you buy the current edition, as test questions change every four years.
If you’re unsure which guide to get, wait until class where you can review the books before purchasing. Note that you do not need to purchase ANYTHING to take the class and you don’t need a book to participate. We will go over everything that would be on the test.
Practice Tests
Practice exams help you know when you’re ready. We suggest using QRZ.com after you’ve studied for a couple of weeks. Apps such as Ham Radio Exam – Tech and Ham Radio Exam – General are also available—just be sure they’re updated to the current test.
Hands-on Resources
DLARC’s Club Station W3OK is open Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings (call to confirm: 484 291 1527).
Members and guests can get hands-on time with HF radios, ask questions, and enjoy informal conversation. DLARC also meets monthly, usually on the first Thursday at 7:00 PM at the Nancy Run Fire Hall in Bethlehem—visitors welcome! Drop in to say Hi.
