Updated 2/5/2025
United States FCC ULS system information
The Universal Licensing System (ULS) and FCC registration and filing systems were deployed in the Amateur Service on August 16, 1999. To conduct business with the FCC, you must register through FCC COmission REgistration System (CORES) and be assigned an FCC Registration Number (FRN). This number will be used to uniquely identify you in all transactions with the FCC.
This information is for anyone who has never registered with the Universal Licensing System (ULS), or wants to download your Official Copy of your license and make changes to your account.
If you do not have an amateur radio license or an FRN number, and plan on taking the amateur Technician Class test, it is necessary that you pre-register with the ULS and obtain an FRN. If you do not have this ten digit number when you apply for the Technician test, you can not participate in the exam. If you have an FCC issued license, with an FRN, from a different radio service, DO NOT apply for another one. You will use that number on any future exams.
Register for a New FRN
Register in CORES and receive your FRN (FCC Registration Number) before sitting for your exam to ensure your new license is processed quickly and easily through the FCC’s ULS. To conduct business with the FCC, you must register through FCC CORES and be assigned an FRN. This number will be used to uniquely identify you in all transactions with the FCC.
After you have an FRN and password and want to print your Official Copy of your license, download “FCC “Paperless” Amateur Radio…” for instructions. Remember the FCC no longer automatically mails your license to you. Once you have access to your account, you can opt to have a copy mailed to you.
View the FCC web page for step by step instructions on the registration process https://apps.fcc.gov/cores or the Commission Registration System Video Tutorials page for videos that help guide CORES users through a variety of situations.
For assistance, submit a help request on the FCC website on the FCC’s Support Services page or call FCC at 877-480-3201 (Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. ET).
Reference Information:
FCC “Paperless” Amateur Radio License Policy Now in Effect
by FCC February 2015