ARRL Technician Practice Exam

What is required for an individual to serve as a control operator at an amateur station?

1. Must possess a valid driver's license

2. Must be a licensed amateur operator

3. Must be trained by the licensee

4. Must attend club meetings regularly

The correct answer is: Must be a licensed amateur operator

To serve as a control operator at an amateur station, an individual must be a licensed amateur operator. This requirement ensures that the control operator has the necessary knowledge and understanding of amateur radio regulations, operational procedures, and the technical aspects of radio communication. Being a licensed operator signifies that the individual has passed the required examinations and is aware of the rules governing amateur radio use, including frequency allocations, maximum allowable power, and compliance with legal requirements. This is crucial, as the control operator is responsible for the station's operations and must ensure that all transmissions comply with the regulations established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The other choices do not fulfill the fundamental requirements for control operation. Having a driver's license, for instance, does not relate to the technical or regulatory knowledge necessary for amateur radio operation. Training by the licensee could be beneficial but is not a formal requirement established by regulations. Similarly, regularly attending club meetings is not a regulatory requirement for amateur station control.