ARRLWeb: FCC to Drop Morse Testing for All Amateur License Classes

ARRLWeb: FCC to Drop Morse Testing for All Amateur License Classes

"FCC to Drop Morse Testing for All Amateur License Classes

NEWINGTON, CT, Dec 19, 2006 -- In an historic move, the FCC has acted to drop the Morse code requirement for all Amateur Radio license classes.

The Commission adopted the long-awaited Report and Order (R&O) in WT Docket 05-235, the 'Morse code' proceeding, and released it December 19. The FCC R&O also includes an Order on Reconsideration in WT Docket 04-140 -- the 'omnibus' proceeding.

It will modify the Amateur Service rules in response to ARRL's request to accommodate automatically controlled narrowband digital stations on 80 meters in the wake of rule changes that became effective December 15. The Commission designated the 3585 to 3600 kHz frequency segment for such operations, although the segment will remain available for CW, RTTY and data.

The effective date of the FCC's R&O will be 30 days after publication in the Federal Register -- most likely in February. Currently, Amateur Radio applicants must pass a 5 WPM Morse code test to operate on HF. The FCC's action will eliminate that requirement all around. "

"This change eliminates an unnecessary regulatory burden that may discourage current Amateur Radio operators from advancing their skills and participating more fully in the benefits of Amateur Radio," the FCC said.

The ARRL had asked the FCC to retain the 5 WPM for Amateur Extra class applicants only. The FCC proposed earlier to drop the requirement across the board, however, and it held to that decision.

The ARRL has been posting all relevant information on these important Part 97 rule revisions on its "FCC's Morse Code Report and Order WT Docket 05-235" Web page.