ARRL Technician Practice Exam

When is an amateur station permitted to transmit without a control operator present?

1. When using digital modes

2. Never

3. During local events

4. When testing emergency systems

The correct answer is: Never

An amateur station is never permitted to transmit without a control operator present, which is why this answer is correct. The presence of a control operator ensures that all transmissions comply with the regulations and rules set forth by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The control operator is responsible for the station's operation and must ensure that the communication adheres to licensing requirements, good amateur practices, and proper use of the allocated frequency. The concept is crucial in maintaining order on the airwaves and ensuring that amateur communications don’t interfere with other services, especially since amateur radio operates on shared frequencies. This rule upholds the integrity of amateur radio operations and ensures technical standards are met. Although some might consider situations like local events, testing emergency systems, or using digital modes as scenarios where transmission could be seen as permissible without a control operator, these activities still fall under the responsibility of a control operator. Therefore, the station must always have an operator actively overseeing transmissions in compliance with amateur radio rules.