FREE Ham Radio General Class Test Operating Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

When making a contact on the air, what is the generally accepted practice for identifying your station?

Accepted Answer

State your call sign at the beginning and end of each transmission, and at least every 10 minutes during a QSO.

Answer

State your call sign only at the beginning of the contact.

Answer

State your call sign only at the end of the contact.

Answer

State your call sign only when asked by the other station.

Question 2

You hear a station calling 'CQ' on a frequency. What is the appropriate way to respond if you wish to make contact?

Accepted Answer

Transmit the other station's call sign several times, followed by your call sign once.

Answer

Transmit 'CQ' followed by your call sign.

Answer

Transmit the other station's call sign once, followed by your call sign several times.

Answer

Transmit your call sign immediately without acknowledging the other station.

Question 3

Which of the following describes the proper operating practice when tuning a transmitter on the air?

Accepted Answer

Use the minimum power necessary on a clear frequency, or use a dummy load.

Answer

Transmit a continuous carrier wave on the operating frequency.

Answer

Tune at maximum power to ensure proper antenna matching.

Answer

Transmit a series of short, unmodulated pulses.

Question 4

A ham radio operator hears an emergency call for help (MAYDAY or SOS) on a frequency. What is the most appropriate action they should take?

Accepted Answer

Listen carefully, avoid transmitting unless directly involved or if no other station responds, and be prepared to assist.

Answer

Immediately transmit your call sign and offer assistance.

Answer

Attempt to contact the nearest emergency services (police, fire, etc.) directly.

Answer

Change frequency to avoid interfering with the emergency traffic.

Question 5

What is the general practice for selecting an operating frequency before transmitting?

Accepted Answer

Listen for a few moments to ensure the frequency is not in use.

Answer

Immediately transmit your call sign to claim the frequency.

Answer

Ask 'Is this frequency in use?' at high power.

Answer

Assume any frequency you tune to is clear unless you hear loud conversation.

Question 6

Which of the following is considered good operating practice regarding microphone technique?

Accepted Answer

Speak in a normal voice, clearly and distinctly, holding the microphone at a consistent distance.

Answer

Speak loudly and rapidly to ensure your message is heard quickly.

Answer

Hold the microphone very close to your mouth to increase audio gain.

Answer

Use a high-pitched voice to cut through noise.