ARRL Technician Practice Exam

When using tactical identifiers during a community service net operation, how often must your station transmit the station's FCC-assigned call sign?

1. At the end of each communication and every ten minutes during a communication

2. Only at the start of each communication

3. Once every hour

4. Whenever changing frequencies

The correct answer is: At the end of each communication and every ten minutes during a communication

The correct answer highlights the regulations surrounding the transmission of call signs when using tactical identifiers in amateur radio communications, particularly during a community service net operation. According to FCC rules, it is required to transmit your station's FCC-assigned call sign at the end of each communication. Additionally, you must also provide your call sign every ten minutes during the communication if it continues past that duration. This ensures that listeners can identify the station involved in the communication and maintain proper identification throughout the operation. The context of why this regulation exists includes promoting accountability and ensuring that unambiguous identification is maintained during all transmissions, especially in community service operations where multiple operators may be using tactical identifiers rather than their call signs. By consistently transmitting the assigned call sign, operators adhere to legal requirements and enhance the clarity and professionalism of their communications.