How to Get Started in Amateur (Ham) Radio

Amateur Radio, also known as ham radio, is a licensed radio communication service that allows people to communicate locally, regionally, and worldwide using radio frequencies regulated by the FCC. Unlike cell phones or internet-based communication, ham radio operates independently of commercial networks, making it a reliable form of communication for everyday use, experimentation, and emergencies.

The Berryessa Amateur Radio Klub (BARK) supports and promotes amateur radio in Woodland, Davis, Sacramento, Yolo County, and surrounding areas. Our club call sign is K6BER, and we welcome new and experienced operators alike.

What Is Ham Radio?

Ham radio operators use radios, antennas, and repeater systems to communicate over the air. Depending on your license level and equipment, amateur radio allows you to:

Communicate locally using VHF and UHF radios
Access wide-area repeater systems such as BARK’s K6BER repeater
Talk radio-to-radio without relying on commercial infrastructure
Make long-distance (DX) contacts around the world
Build and experiment with radios and electronics, learning how radio systems work
Design and build your own antennas and station equipment
Experiment with digital and data modes, such as packet radio
Combine radio with computer networking, software, and basic scripting for data communications
Play an important role in emergency and disaster communications when other systems are unavailable
and more!

Amateur radio is a broad and flexible hobby that you can enjoy at your own pace. Many people get licensed, start with the basics, and spend years having fun and learning—without needing to master everything ham radio has to offer to have a rewarding experience.

Why Become a Licensed Ham Radio Operator?

Becoming a licensed amateur radio operator gives you legal access to radio frequencies and opens the door to many opportunities:

Hands-on learning in radio technology, antennas, and electronics
Global communication with operators worldwide
Emergency communications during disasters, power outages, or infrastructure failures
Community service through events, public service, and emergency preparedness
Membership in a supportive local club like the Berryessa Amateur Radio Klub

The entry-level Technician Class license is ideal for beginners and provides full access to the VHF and UHF bands used by most local repeaters, including BARK’s K6BER repeater system.

How to Get Started in Ham Radio with BARK

Getting started in amateur radio is easier than you might think:

Study for the FCC amateur radio exam
BARK can help point you to trusted study materials, practice exams, and learning resources. A favorite of ours is HamStudy.org.
Take the amateur radio license exam
Exams are administered by Volunteer Examiners, both locally and online. BARK host regular testing sessions in Woodland, CA. Morse code is not required to be licensed.
Receive your FCC call sign
Once you pass the exam, the FCC will issue your personal call sign, allowing you to legally transmit.
Get your first ham radio
Many new operators start with a simple VHF/UHF handheld radio to access local repeaters like K6BER. A few club favorites are the TidRadio TD-H3 ($30 and our usual recommendation), the TYT UV88 ($40), the Baofeng UV-5R ($20), and the Yaesu FT-65r ($120). You can often find these models even cheaper on sale or in a multi-pack bundle.
Get on the air
Listen to the BARK repeater, check into nets, and make your first on-air contacts.
Join the Berryessa Amateur Radio Klub
BARK members benefit from mentoring, technical help, on-air activities, and club events.

Amateur radio is a rewarding hobby that grows with you—from your first handheld radio to advanced digital modes and long-distance communication. The Berryessa Amateur Radio Klub (K6BER) is here to help you every step of the way.

Can I Get Started in Radio Without Being Licensed?

Absolutely! While transmitting on amateur radio frequencies requires a license, there are several great ways to explore radio and get involved before you’re licensed.

License-Free Radio Options

There are modern radio technologies that operate without an amateur radio license:

Meshtastic
Meshtastic is a popular off-grid communication system that operates on the 915 MHz ISM band in the United States using affordable, low-power radios. It creates a decentralized mesh network for text messaging, location sharing, and data—no license required. Learn more about the BARK Meshtastic Node here.
MeshCore
MeshCore is a similar project that also focuses on mesh networking and data communication using license-free spectrum. It’s another great way to experiment with radios, antennas, and networking concepts without needing a ham license.

These systems are a fun, easy way to get hands-on with radio, antennas, and digital communications—even if you’re not yet licensed. Many ham radio operators enjoy exploring them alongside traditional amateur radio, and both Meshtastic and MeshCore are active here in the Sacramento area. Several BARK members use these systems regularly, and newcomers are always welcome to try them out.

Get On the Air with BARK — No License Required

You can also experience real ham radio operation by attending a Berryessa Amateur Radio Klub (BARK) operating event.

At club operating events:

Licensed BARK members serve as control operators
The station operates under the club call sign, K6BER
Members of the public are welcome to talk on the radio under the direct supervision of a licensed operator

This allows anyone—licensed or not—to get hands-on experience, make contacts, and see what amateur radio is really like in a friendly, supportive environment.

A Great First Step

Many people start with license-free radio, attend a BARK event, or listen to the repeaters before deciding to get licensed. There’s no pressure—just opportunities to learn, explore, and have fun.

If you’re curious about radio, BARK is a great place to start, whether or not you have a license yet.